Elliotte Friedman reveals the circumstances that will lead to an Erik Karlsson trade out of Pittsburgh

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Tom Banks
November 14, 2024 (9:02 PM)

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The Pittsburgh Penguins appear open to moving Erik Karlsson, but if that is to happen, it's reportedly 'up to him'.

After moving Lars Eller this past week, the Pittsburgh Penguins are reportedly open for business, with a potential rebuild of this iconic franchise on the way in the very near future.

During their dreadful 6-9-3 start, one player that has received plenty of criticism is Erik Karlsson, with many in the organization believing that his best days are far, far behind him.

Unfortunately for the front office that brought him in last summer however, Karlsson still carries a salary cap hit of $11.5 million this season, but with that number dropping over the next few seasons, a trade becomes much more palatable for opposing teams.

Now, Insider Elliotte Friedman has given an update on his situation, revealing that in the long run, it's simply up to Karlsson whether he stays or goes.

Erik Karlsson? Again, he's got control. So it's going to be up to him. Look at his contract structure, though. The salary drops from $11 million now to $9 million (2025-26), then $7.5 million(2026-27), and San Jose has a bit of retention. A big chunk of next year's money is a $5-million signing bonus. He was traded from the Sharks to Pittsburgh on Aug. 6, 2023, so, if a similar blueprint is followed, that's even less of a financial commitment for an acquiring team.

Karlsson is taking a lot of heat locally and internationally - long-time Swedish league and national team GM Johan Garpenlov told Radio Sporten the defenceman's play is too much of a risk for the 4 Nations Face-Off - but, as the salary drops, it's not wrong to believe there would be interest. He's still very, very talented.

Friedman also mentions that Sweden's national team coach doesn't believe Karlsson's play is deserving of a spot on that team, so while he has the talent, it's clear that the production and the perception is no longer what it once was.

Ultimately, there's likely a contender out there willing to take on that deal for the final two years, and if Karlsson wants a shot at a Stanley Cup, he's likely very willing to waive his no-trade clause.