The NHL recognized Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson with the “First Star of the Week” award for the week of Dec. 2.
The Capitals swept their California trip with wins over the San Jose Sharks, Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks last week. Carlson scored three goals (including two game-winners) and added three assists in that span, bringing his season total to 43 points, most among all NHL defensemen.
Carlson is on pace to record 114 points this season. No defenseman has reached 100 points in a season since Brian Leetch in 1991-92.