Karlsson to return to Sharks' lineup for season finale

Erik Karlsson will return to the San Jose Sharks lineup Saturday night versus the Colorado Avalanche for one final tune up before the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, head coach Peter DeBoer confirmed.

Karlsson hasn't played since Feb. 26 due to a groin injury suffered just five games after returning from a month-long absence with a similar ailment. The 28-year-old missed 17 games this time around, and stated he'd "100 percent" be ready for the playoffs in early March.

In 52 appearances in his first season on the West Coast, Karlsson has notched 45 points. His return comes at a welcome time for the Sharks, who have stumbled down the stretch with a 2-7-1 record in their last 10 games.