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Erik Karlsson Blocking the Path for Penguins Top Prospect to Make the NHL
Photo credit: The Mercury News
Penguins prospect Harrison Brunicke could have his path to the NHL blocked by Pittsburgh defenseman Erik Karlsson, who has been heavily involved in trade rumors.
It's been several weeks now of summer, and Pittsburgh Penguins GM Kyle Dubas still has not been able to find a trade partner for defenseman Erik Karlsson, who has been rumored to be on the move for some time now.
But as the Penguins will begin preparations for training camp later in the month, there's a chance that Karlsson's presence on the team could block the path of prospect Harrison Brunicke.
Why Harrison Brunicke's Development Hinges on Erik Karlsson's Future
Per Penguins analyst Josh Yohe of The Athletic, Brunicke's development and NHL timeline is being greatly affected by Karlsson, and if Karlsson remains on the Penguins should Dubas be unable to trade him, he may have to begin the year in the AHL.
Keep Harrison Brunicke's progression in mind during training camp. Last season, at 18, he was the best defenseman at Penguins camp. He was that good - and yes, perhaps the rest of the blue line was that bad. The decision to keep or trade Karlsson could profoundly impact Brunicke's NHL timeline.
Penguins' Blue Line Decisions Could Shape 19-Year-Old's NHL Timeline
Last summer, Brunicke signed a 3 year entry level contract with the Penguins:
Taken with the 44th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, Brunicke has played the last several years with the Kamloops Blazers.
It'll be up to him to state the best case possible for him to earn a roster spot on Pittsburgh this year, but the fact remains that if Karlsson is still a Penguin, Brunicke's path to the NHL will likely be delayed.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 5 | 29 ANSWERS Erik Karlsson Blocking the Path for Penguins Top Prospect to Make the NHL Will Erik Karlsson still be on the Penguins on opening night next month? | ||
| Yes | 19 | 65.5 % |
| No | 10 | 34.5 % |
| List of polls | ||