Three-time Norris Trophy winner emerges as major Penguins trade candidate
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Erik Karlsson is a prime trade candidate this season as Kyle Dubas stays active, and the Penguins defenseman is on an expiring $10 million deal.
The Pittsburgh Penguins could be facing a big decision, because Erik Karlsson is being named one of the top trade candidates in the NHL this season.
The veteran defenseman is in the final year of his contract, carrying a $10 million cap hit.
Daily Faceoff's Matt Larkin is the one who put Karlsson at the top of his list.
His reasoning is pretty simple.
Pittsburgh made the playoffs last season, but Larkin believes plenty of bounces went their way, and this year's group is already dealing with injuries to Bryan Rust and Benjamin Kindel.
Why Karlsson could move
Larkin also expects the Washington Capitals and Florida Panthers to climb back into the Eastern Conference picture, which could push a couple of last year's playoff teams out.
If Pittsburgh ends up being one of them at the deadline, Karlsson would be a hot name.
He's a right-shot puck mover with plenty left in the tank, and he's still chasing his first Stanley Cup.
There is a catch, though. Karlsson owns a no-movement clause, so he has the final say on where he goes.
Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos also listed him on his trade board and pointed out that a deal only works if Karlsson is willing to waive it for a contender.
What Dubas is balancing
Kyle Dubas is trying to get the roster younger while still giving Sidney Crosby a couple more real shots at a Cup.
That tug of war is why he's expected to be busy on the trade market no matter where the Penguins sit in the standings.
Keep an eye on Pittsburgh, because Karlsson could be the first domino to fall.
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