Two famous adversaries within the Atlantic Division emerge as possible landing spots for Pittsburgh Penguins offensive defenseman Erik Karlsson. The Toronto Maple Leafs and the Ottawa Senators are reported to be excited by acquiring the veteran blueliner, which is generating chatter regarding a possible blockbuster trade.
The Maple Leafs have taken an in depth have a look at Karlsson so as to add more offensive options from the blue line. A source told RG that Toronto’s interest “is greater than just talk” and that “some salary would likely be retained” if a deal involves fruition. Despite the past connection between Penguins GM Kyle Dubas and the Maple Leafs, the source downplayed any lingering issues, emphasizing that Toronto’s management is about results, not history.
Adding Karlsson would help alleviate the lack of offense left after Mitch Marner. The Leafs could have to explore potential options, including Dougie Hamilton, but Karlsson is more attractive due to his power-play skills and playmaking capabilities. Toronto has roughly $4.9 million in cap space, and this could still be doable if Pittsburgh is willing to retain their salary on him.
However, the Ottawa Senators have also emerged as a team of interest. Karlsson spent the primary nine years of his profession in Ottawa, and although formal discussions have not been confirmed, the concept of him returning to the team that drafted him is gaining momentum amongst league insiders.
Now at 35, Karlsson is within the seventh yr of an eight-year, $92 million contract he originally signed with the San Jose Sharks. When he was traded to the Penguins, San Jose retained just over 13% of his salary, leaving Pittsburgh with a $10 million cap hit.
Karlsson enjoyed an important bounce-back season last yr, with 11 goals and 42 assists over 82 games, which solidified him as one of the vital potent defensemen in the sport. He has amassed a complete of 200 goals and 670 assists in 1,084 regular-season games. He’s opened up a lead because the second lively defenseman in scoring history and sits fifteenth all-time in points in NHL history.
The financial elements are essential, depending on whether he’s heading back to Ottawa or Toronto. It would take an extreme contract since you’re including Karlsson’s current contract as a considerable barrier, but reports claim Pittsburgh has begun entertaining trade discussions.