Erik Karlsson's Future in Pittsburgh Comes to Light Amid Inconsistent Season
PUBLICATION
Tom Banks
April 22, 2025 (1:24 PM)
Photo credit: Inside the Rink
Erik Karlsson's play was inconsistent in 2024/25, and after a meeting with GM Kyle Dubas, his future with the Penguins organization has come to light.
The Pittsburgh Penguins took a gamble when they acquired Erik Karlsson two summers ago, and in those two campaigns with the team, he's been a solid veteran influence on the blue line.
However, with the salary cap set to rise this summer, many have called for the team to move on from the veteran, who clearly can't get it done at the level that he once could as a three-time Norris Trophy winner.
Now, after a disappointing season that saw them miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs for a third straight season, Kyle Dubas has addressed the media, and in the process he has potentially revealed the future of the 34-year old.
"Erik is and will forever be a polarizing figure. My view would be we expect him to be one of the people who pulls us from where we're at into contention. I had a long meeting with him... my push would be his actions have to match his ambitions. He showed throughout the year he has another level to him.
He had moments of great play with too many inconsistencies. We have to push him to get here."
After a long meeting with Karlsson, the GM revealed that he believes the veteran defenseman could be a player that helps pull them out of their recent struggles, suggesting that he may not be looking to move him in the summer after all.
Ultimately, what the team decide to do with Karlsson could be a big factor in their future, and if the team make the wrong decision, it could cost them moving forward, so keep a close eye on this entire situation.
Previously on HockeyUnplugged
POLL |
AVRIL 22 | 150 ANSWERS Erik Karlsson's Future in Pittsburgh Comes to Light Amid Inconsistent Season Should the Penguins trade Erik Karlsson this summer? |
Yes | 120 | 80 % |
No | 30 | 20 % |
List of polls |