NHL Trade Rumors: Penguins' Erik Karlsson Linked To Former Team
The Ottawa Senators have once again been linked to Erik Karlsson, with Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos reporting that the team is exploring the idea of reacquiring their former captain from the Pittsburgh Penguins. With the Penguins struggling to stay in the playoff race, Karlsson has surfaced as a trade candidate, and Ottawa is looking to add a top-four defenseman. “They’re looking to add another top-four defenseman, and there’s some thought of bringing him home again,” Kypreos wrote. However, such a move would require a big financial commitment from the Senators’ new ownership and confidence from management that Karlsson’s return wouldn’t disrupt the chemistry of the team’s evolving blue line led by Jake Sanderson.Erik Karlsson SNIPES IT to get the Pens on the board 🎯 🐧 pic.twitter.com/nQ1O6NmpdO— Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) February 9, 2025 Karlsson, who carries a $10 million cap hit for the next two seasons, would likely need salary retention from Pittsburgh to make a trade work. The Penguins are reportedly seeking young, controllable assets in any deal, which could make negotiations a little more difficult. With the salary cap set to rise, contracts that were once difficult to move are becoming more manageable. The Senators, currently holding a wild-card spot, could see acquiring Karlsson as a player who will not only strengthen their defense but also energize the fan base.this sequence by erik karlsson is exactly what makes him great. with that comeback OT win, suddenly the penguins making the playoffs isn’t so crazy pic.twitter.com/Z8yo5F83sS— ego (@notmalkinego) February 28, 2024 While an in-season trade remains uncertain, discussions could gain traction in the summer as Ottawa continues to build on its roster. Karlsson may not be the same player who dominated during his first stint in Ottawa, but his offensive abilities could still provide value to a team lacking playoff experience. If the Senators believe he can be an impact player without disrupting their young core, a reunion could be a possibility. “If those hurdles clear, the Sens would have to make the deal and retention worthwhile for the Penguins,” Kypreos added.Photo Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images...
Read Full Article.Want the trending hockey news in your inbox daily?.
Just add your email, and we'll start sending you the most important hockey news of the day.
