By the Numbers: How Erik Karlsson Gave #65 a Place in NHL History
From an Uncommon Number to One of the Game’s Most Recognizable
Over 1,100 NHL games, more than 900 points, and three Norris Trophies. That’s the résumé Erik Karlsson has built while wearing number “65”—a number that didn’t mean much in NHL circles before he came along.
Breaking In with Ottawa
Karlsson broke into the league with the Ottawa Senators in 2009 after being taken 15th overall in the 2008 Draft. Right away, it was clear he played the position differently. He skated with speed, trusted his instincts, and wasn’t afraid to have the puck on his stick. Before long, number “65” was leading the rush as often as defending it. Quickly, Karlsson became one of the league’s most impactful and creative defensemen. During his time in Ottawa, he won two Norris Trophies (2012, 2015).
Cool Fact: Bobby Orr praised Karlsson for his fast skating and performance and compared him to Larry Robinson and Paul Coffey; Coffey referred to Karlsson as an "elite player" and one of the best NHL players.
A Career Season in San Jose
After leaving Ottawa, Karlsson landed with the San Jose Sharks, where he continued to put his stamp on the game. The peak came in the 2022–23 season, when he posted 101 points, one of the best offensive seasons ever by a defenseman. It earned him his third Norris Trophy and showed that, when healthy, number “65” could still tilt the ice every night.
A Veteran Role in Pittsburgh
In 2023, Karlsson landed in Pittsburgh, joining a veteran Pittsburgh Penguins group that already knew how to win. Although his role may have shifted slightly, his game didn’t need to change much. In both 2023-24 and 2024-25, number “65” played in 82 games and posted back-to-back 50+ point seasons. In the 2025-26 season, as of January 16, Karlsson has played in 44 games and posted 33 points for Pittsburgh.
What #65 Means Now
Before Erik Karlsson, number “65” was just another number without much significance in NHL history. After nearly two decades of elite play, jersey number “65” now stands for confidence, creativity, and a All-Star defenseman who helped change how the position is played.