Elliotte Friedman Links Erik Karlsson To Canadian Franchise

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Dawson McKenzie
February 22, 2024 (3:15 PM)

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There is no doubt that the Erik Karlsson experiment in Pittsburgh isn't going as hoped, and now Elliotte Friedman has linked him to this Canadian team ahead of the deadline.

Elliotte Friedman Links Karlsson to the Ottawa Senators Ahead of Deadline

Kyle Dubas took a big shot in his first year as GM of the Pittsburgh Penguins, making a massive blockbuster deal for former Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson. However, it is fair to say that trade has not worked out as hoped. Karlsson currently sits with just 7 goals in the first half of the season, and the Penguins are sitting near the bottom of their division.

With that, there has been speculation that the Penguins will look to trade Karlsson while he still has some value in order to start their rebuild. Now, Elliotte Friedman has linked Karlsson to his former team, the Ottawa Senators.

Please recognize that this is manifesting purely in my head. But, as I watch Daniel Alfredsson on the bench in Ottawa, I can't help but wonder if the Senators consider a Karlsson reunion. At least, brainstorm it. Yes, it's complicated and yes, everyone would have to be on board. But no one mind-melds with Karlsson like Alfredsson, and, since it got into my head, I can't stop thinking about the possibility of it.

Speculation Makes Sense for Both Teams

While this is all just speculation, the link is certainly there. Karlsson is undoubtedly getting near the end of his career, and it would be a great move for him to return to the franchise where it all started. For Pittsburgh, the Senators have some assets they may be willing to part ways with that would help them rebuild.

While this is a long shot, it is not out of the question that the Penguins would trade Karlsson, and if that is so, we will have to keep our eyes on the Senators as potential suitors.