We’ve reached the dog days of the NHL offseason, so naturally come some realistic and not-so-realistic rumors and talking points.
Erik Karlsson’s future with the Pittsburgh Penguins beyond 2026-27, however, is in serious question as he enters the final year of his contract and team reporter Josh Yohe seems to believe it will be his final year in the black and gold no matter what.
“I’d be surprised if they give Karlsson a new deal after this season, despite his brilliance. He’d be 37 at the start of that deal and won’t come cheap. It just doesn’t make sense. So, if they’re good, I assume they’ll keep him and let him walk next summer. If the postseason looks unlikely, I believe the organization will trade him,”
Jimmy Muprhy of RG Media then chimed in with a mention of Karlsson potentially going back to Ottawa or heading to Toronto before the season starts:
“IMHO, Erik Karlsson to the #GoSensGo or #LeafsForever before the 2026-27 season starts,”
The 36-year-old Karlsson is about to enter the eighth and final year of the eight-year, $92 million contract extension he originally signed with the San Jose Sharks in 2019. He racked up 66 points (15 goals, 51 assists) in 75 games played last season.
Karlsson is no stranger to seeing his name pop up in trade rumors, as it seemingly happens just about every offseason.
It’s very unlikely that the Penguins move their No. 1 defenseman before the start of the campaign, though depending on how they fare in the first few months of the season, he could eventually become available.
Whether the Senators or Maple Leafs would actually have interest in or be a fit for Karlsson remains in question, but there’s no doubt this situation in Pittsburgh will come to a head at some point in the near future, so it’s something to keep an eye on.
Next: Patriots Have Made Record-Breaking Contract Offer to Christian Gonzalez
