Trade Rumour Emerges Sending Erik Karlsson Back to his Former Team
A trade rumor online has emerged that has Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson heading back to his former team, in what would be a blockbuster.
The Penguins continue to try to find their way. It has been one of those seasons, where teases of hot runs provided reasons to think about the playoffs, only to be snapped back to reality with large cold streaks.
With the March 7 trade deadline looming, general manager Kyle Dubas has an enormous decision regarding the future of this team, likely a seller once again.
One of the boldest moves Dubas made was signing two-time Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson in the summer of 2023. That move might very well blow up in his face as Karlsson is now reportedly on the trade block.
The Penguins reportedly are willing to retain a sizeable portion of his $11.5 million cap hit, $10 million that they're responsible for, in order to facilitate a trade.
Despite all of the troubles this team has endured, Karlsson remains an incredibly valuable trade asset. He has bounced back admirably this season, reaching four goals and 32 points in 48 games, including 14 in his last 15.
If he continues at even a semblance of that rate, he could net a significant return at the deadline, provided Pittsburgh is still outside the playoff window.
New online rumor has Erik Karlsson linked to the Ottawa Senators
One such rumor that was trending online involves Karlsson going back to where it all began, the Ottawa Senators.
The rumored trade would see the Sens send Shane Pinto, Anton Forsberg, Stephen Halliday, and a couple of draft picks to Pittsburgh in return for Karlsson, at 35% salary retained, and Drew O'Connor.
One thing is for sure, regardless of whether Ottawa is the team that ends up getting Karlsson, you can tell that a trade seems like it inching closer and closer with each passing day.
