Penguins Divisional Rival Reportedly 'Investigating' Erik Karlsson Trade
Photo credit: Sports Illustrated
The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly "investigating" a trade for Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsosn, per analyst Frank Seravalli.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are reportedly trying to trade players like Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, along with defenseman Erik Karlsson.
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas is reportedly trying to get his club younger, and could even be intentionally trying to gain the highest pick in the upcoming 2026 NHL Entry Draft as possible.
While the Penguins haven't been able to find trade partners yet for Rust, Rickell and Karlsson, there is a divisional foe of the Penguins reportedly interested in Karlsson.
Per NHL analyst Frank Seravalli, the Carolina Hurricanes have been "investigating" a potential deal for Karlsson with the caveat of getting the Penguins to retain some of his salary.
If they could get him down to that $7-7.5 range for two more seasons, I think there's a team that would certainly take a flyer; I think Carolina was one of those teams that spent time investigating.
Right now, Karlsson still has 2 years left with an AAV (average annual value) of $11.5 million left on his contract, which would need to have a portion retained.
Carolina Hurricanes Remain Top Contender for Erik Karlsson
Karlsson has been suggested as a possibility for multiple NHL teams, and the Hurricanes could represent the best potential fit.
The Hurricanes are clearly in a "win now" mode, while the Penguins aren't expected to even realistically challenge for a postseason spot any time soon.
Karlsson, who won the Norris Trophy 2 years ago as the NHL's best defenseman, has seen his stats dwindle since joining the Penguins. This year, he had 53 points (11G, 42A) in 82 games.
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