Vegas' Karlsson looking to prove breakout year was 'no fluke'

Vegas Golden Knights forward William Karlsson believes he can replicate last season's success and ink the lucrative contract he desires.

After finishing third in the league with 43 goals, the 25-year-old couldn't come to terms on a long-term deal with the club, instead settling on a one-year, $5.25-million contract.

"It's me betting on myself a little," Karlsson said, according to NHL.com's Mike Zeisberger. "It would be great with a long-term (deal) but we couldn't agree on that. Both sides wanted it long term but it couldn't work out.

"I believe I can have another productive year, show that last season was no fluke, and earn something long term."

Karlsson's monstrous campaign came after never managing more than nine goals or 25 points in his first two full seasons in the league with the Columbus Blue Jackets. With Vegas, he saw an increase of 34 goals and 53 points, which he attributes largely to an increased role with the Golden Knights.

"I'm not sure what happened in Columbus but when your confidence is down it affects you," Karlsson said. "All I wanted is a chance to show what I can do. Vegas let me do that. It let a lot of guys do that."

If Karlsson can put up another 40-goal season, he could command a long-term contract in the ballpark of $9 million per season.