Karlsson, whose 43 goals this season surpassed his previous career-high of nine with the Columbus Blue Jackets, recognizes the importance of using his career year as a stepping stone to continue progressing.
"If I don't work hard in the summer and I come back here and think I'll have it easy, I can't," Karlsson said. "I have to work even harder to try to be better."
In 82 games this season, Karlsson took six minor penalties and spent only 12 minutes in the penalty box.
The Marsta, Sweden native could become the first Swedish-born player to win the Lady Byng since Mats Naslund of the Montreal Canadiens was honored in the 1987-88 season. Reaching this position is something that Karlsson gives the Golden Knights full credit for.
"I wasn't really happy with the way I was playing in Columbus and the role I was given," he said. "Coming here was a great chance for me and it was up to me to take that chance. Ever since I got put with Marchessault and Smith, we had a chemistry and it kind of snowballed from there."
Competing at such a high level in 2017-18 has only made Karlsson hungrier for more success next season.
"Hopefully I can score some goals next year too," he said with a smile. "Some of these guys have been on top for many years now and they want to get better. That's how they stay on top."
While Karlsson hopes he will take home the Lady Byng, he became excited when asked about the prospect of Engelland winning the Messier Leadership Award.
"He was great on the ice and off the ice as a leader," Karlsson said. "Not only for the team, but for the community as well. I sure hope he wins it."
Joining Karlsson in the Lady Byng race this season are Aleksandr Barkov of the Florida Panthers and Ryan O'Reilly of the Buffalo Sabres.
