3 Erik Karlsson plays that turned the tide in Senators' favor

In the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs, it's Erik Karlsson who fits to a tee whatever definition you ascribe to the term "gamebreaker."

Over the past three games, the Ottawa Senators defenseman has reminded the hockey world that he's quite simply one of the best at any position, setting up key goals in ways that few others can.

Here's a look at three plays that have most definitely helped turn the tide in Ottawa's favor in a series the Senators now lead 3-1 over the Boston Bruins.

Draw them in, dish it off

And just like that, we're tied.

This game is crazy. #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/mg7SnNPpPs

- NHL (@NHL) April 15, 2017

Down a goal in the third period of Game 2, Karlsson was somehow able to keep the puck in the offensive zone, skate around the opposition while attracting all the attention, and send a perfect pass across the ice to Derick Brassard, who made no mistake on a wide open net.

Tie game, and the Senators went on to win in overtime.

Breakout pass for the ages

Mike Hoffman opened the scoring in Game 4 with a spectacular move on Tuukka Rask, but the breakaway opportunity was sprung by a seemingly impossible lob pass from Ottawa's goal line to Boston's blue line.

The sauce is just silly, the finish is fantastic. #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/CBkBCbnMB1

- NHL (@NHL) April 18, 2017

That could end being one of the nicest plays of the postseason when it's all said and done.

Slap pass for the win

The Senators ultimately needed a lone goal to prevail in Game 4, and it was set up by a filthy slap pass to Bobby Ryan.

The passes coming from @ErikKarlsson65 are consistently remarkable. #StanleyCup #OTTvsBOS pic.twitter.com/pcq6iBSvUo

- NHL (@NHL) April 20, 2017

Karlsson has five assists in four games, and is proving, without question, to be Ottawa's most valuable player.

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