Karlsson Trade Rumors Heat Up in Toronto
The Maple Leafs are making headlines again. And this time, it’s about their aggressive pursuit of three-time Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson, according to a new report from RG Media. Citing an anonymous NHL source, the article claims there’s “more than hearsay” between Toronto and Pittsburgh regarding a possible deal for the Penguins defenseman.
Karlsson, now two years removed from his epic 101-point campaign with the Sharks, hasn’t produced at the same level with Pittsburgh. Still, his elite puck-moving skills and offensive upside could be exactly what the Leafs need—especially after losing Mitch Marner’s production.
Cap Space Is the Main Obstacle
The NHL salary cap math here is brutal. Karlsson is still carrying a hefty $10 million cap hit, and even though the San Jose Sharks retained $1.5 million when they traded him to the Penguins, the Leafs would still need Pittsburgh to retain up to $5 million to make it work.
Per league rules, only 50% of a contract can be retained by one team, and only two retentions are allowed total. So, realistically, the best-case scenario would still leave Toronto on the hook for $5 million.
Read More: 15 Times Draft Day Trades Made Teams Look Like Geniuses
What the Leafs Might Offer
Would the Maple Leafs part with top prospect Easton Cowan? Possibly—but only if the Penguins agree to absorb some salary or take back bad contracts like David Kampf or Ryan Reaves. Defenseman Morgan Rielly has also been mentioned by fans, but Toronto insists he’s staying put.
Still, with Penguins GM Kyle Dubas, Toronto’s former GM at the helm in Pittsburgh. Some thought lingering tension could kill any deal. According to the source, however, “this is a business,” and personal history won’t block a potential blockbuster.
The Maple Leafs are clearly going all-in on improving their blue line, and Karlsson, despite a decline in recent output, remains one of the NHL’s most dynamic defenders. If GM Brad Treliving can pull this off without mortgaging the future, it might be a move that finally pushes Toronto over the top.
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