Erik Karlsson’s name is once again swirling in trade, and this time the Detroit Red Wings have emerged as serious contenders to land the veteran defenseman.
According to NHL reporter Roger Hicks, trade discussions between the Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins are heating up as both sides work toward a possible deal for the former Norris Trophy winner.
“Sounds like (Detroit) and (Penguins) talks are intensifying regarding defenseman Erik Karlsson,” Hicks reported, adding that salary retention is expected but the extent remains unclear.
Karlsson, 35, is under contract for two more seasons on an eight-year, $92 million deal that carries an $11.5 million annual cap hit. The San Jose Sharks are already covering part of that salary from last year’s trade, but Pittsburgh would still likely need to retain a portion to facilitate any move—potentially even more to find a willing partner.
Last season, Karlsson played all 82 regular-season games, logging over 23 minutes per night and tallying 53 points. Should he join Detroit, he would add veteran leadership and slot into the second defensive pairing behind rising star Moritz Seider.
Following the end of the Penguins’ season, Karlsson acknowledged the ongoing trade speculation:
“I’ve been through this before,” he said. “At the end of the day, it’s a business.”
Insider Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic noted that Karlsson would be willing to waive his full no-move clause—but only for a team he views as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. That caveat could present a hurdle for Detroit if they aren’t seen as ready to compete at that level.
“My understanding is that Karlsson would be open to waiving to join a contender,” LeBrun wrote. “It might seem obvious, but with his full no-move, he holds all the cards.”
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