Insider Reports Penguins May Be On The Verge Of Trading Erik Karlsson

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James Connelly
December 19, 2023 (11:11)

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The Pittsburgh Penguins have started the season flat-footed and could now be looking into trading Erik Karlsson for more long-term success.

Penguins Reporter Reveals That They May Explore Trading Erik Karlsson

To say Erik Karlsson has been underwhelming since being traded to Pittsburgh would be an understatement. After scoring 101 points last year and winning the Norris Trophy, Karlsson has taken a major step back scoring only 21 points in 29 games and not looking like a Norris-level defenseman.

Penguins reporter Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey Now recently offered some insight into the Karlsson situation and revealed that the Penguins may be exploring the possibility of trading him.

"From this view of the church, it seems the Penguins could indeed trade Erik Karlsson. He's here to win, and if that's not going to happen, both sides could find a quick and amicable parting. Dubas could surely recoup the first and second-round picks the Penguins gave up in the deal, if not more, and even come out ahead. However, next summer is the more likely timeframe for that trade because of Karlsson's salary." - Dan Kingerski

Karlsson counts for $10 million against Pittsburgh's cap, which is no small amount. To make things more concerning, the 33-year-old is signed till 2027 which means the Penguins may have to consider buying him out at some point if he continues to decline.

Penguins Stuck In No Mans Land

Currently, the Penguins sit at 7th in the Metropolitan Divison and have a long way to climb before sitting in playoff position. With the Rangers, Flyers, Islanders, Hurricanes, Capitals, and Devils all outplaying them, the chances the Penguins make the playoffs may be dwindling.

To set off more alarms, their core is aging with Karlsson, Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang, and Evgeni Malkin all over 33 with 3/4 being 36 or older. With their youngest star, Jake Guentzel, in the final year of his contract, the Penguins may be forced to enter a hard rebuild and move on from their aging pieces.

Only time will tell what happens with the Penguins but the current predicament leaves them struggling to find a future.

As seen on House of Hockey - RUMOR: Pittsburgh Penguins Trading Karlsson? Becoming A Real Possibility Per Reporter