We Now Know the Insane Package it Would Take to Acquire Erik Karlsson
It was a generation-defining blockbuster when the San Jose Sharks acquired Erik Karlsson from the Ottawa Senators.
One of the greatest to ever wear the Senators crest, EK65 was meant to turn to Sharks franchise around.
Unfortunately, injuries turned the trade into a near-instant disaster for the team.
Now, with Karlsson having an incredible rebound season, and being at the forefront of the Norris trophy conversation, the Sharks are shopping their fabled superstar.
The ask, however, is absolutely insane.
Karlsson is the highest-paid defenseman in the league, with a cap-hit of $11.5-million annually. Any feasible trade for him would have to come with some salary retention.
Per Frank Seravalli, the Sharks are willing to retain 18% of Karlsson's salary. This would bring his cap hit down to $9.43-million, which is in the range of an average #1 blueliner.
To get this deal done, however, would cost a team a whopping three first-round picks.
Karlsson is still a franchise-altering piece as long as he keeps up his stellar play, but with his contract taking him through 37-years-old, and injuries in his past, it could be too risky of a move for a team.
Would you want your team to pay three first-round picks to add Karlsson to your team?
| POLL | ||
Would you want your team to make this trade? | ||
| Yes | 42 | 35.6 % |
| No | 76 | 64.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
