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Penguins reportedly set to explore trade involving superstar defenseman Erik Karlsson this summer
Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Tonight, a new report from NHL insider has suggested the Pittsburgh Penguins are ready to explore trading Erik Karlsson this summer.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are in the middle of a tense Stanley Cup Playoff race in the Eastern Conference.
Even with the Penguins in playoff contention the team is reportedly looking toward the future and considering a roster shake up.
Evgeni Malkin's future is uncertain after extension talks have stalled with the organization leading to free agency and retirement rumors.
Now, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun has announced that he expects the Penguins to explore the idea of trading away top defenseman Erik Karlsson.
Penguins reportedly set to explore Erik Karlsson trade this summer
LeBrun recently discussed the top offseason trade candidates across the NHL and mentioned Karlsson as a potential player needing a change of scenery.
After July 1st, all of Karlsson's bonuses will be paid making trading him much easier for the Penguins.
If the Penguins fully lean into a rebuild after this season, LeBrun fully expects Karlsson to find a new home.
Anyway, this could finally be the offseason where Karlsson moves, especially after his $6 million signing bonus is paid July 1. After that, all Karlsson has left on his contract is $1.5 million in base pay for next season. His $11.5 million AAV remains an issue as far as the cap hit, but if the Pittsburgh Penguins were ready to retain half that cap hit, there should be genuine interest. - Pierre LeBrun
However, if Dubas and the Penguins re-sign Malkin and decide to run it back for one more run then a Karlsson trade becomes infinitely less likely.
As the offseason approaches, it will be fun to see if the Karlsson rumors intensify or dissipate before that July 1st bonus gets paid out.
Also read on HockeyUnplugged :
Kyle Dubas halts Evgeni Malkin extension talks despite center's desire to stay
Kyle Dubas halts Evgeni Malkin extension talks despite center's desire to stay
| POLL | ||
MARS 9|126 ANSWERS Penguins reportedly set to explore trade involving superstar defenseman Erik Karlsson this summer Should the Pittsburgh Penguins trade away Erik Karlsson? | ||
| Yes | 57 | 45.2 % |
| No | 69 | 54.8 % |
| List of polls | ||