Erik Karlson trade is falling apart as front-runner steps out!

Talks have continued to emerge that the Edmonton Oilers have zeroed in on San Jose Sharks’ Erik Karlsson especially after players confronted general manager Ken Holland in order to get a puck-moving defenseman ahead of the March 3rd deadline.

However, reports now reveal that Holland is about to let his team down… yet again.

According to the Fourth Period, it’s been determined that Karlsson is too pricey for the Oilers. Here is how David Pagnotta explains it:

“A well-placed source close with knowledge of the situation told me on Tuesday that a deal is considered unlikely, unless the Sharks shift their mindset and are willing to retain a significant portion of Karlsson’s contract.”

It had been said and understood from the start that a way to get out of taking Karlsson’ full salary cap would be implied. He carries an $11.5-million dollar cap hit through 2026-27. However, Pagnotta repeats how the Sharks are willing to retain between $2 million and $3 million of that annual cap figure from the defenseman, and aren’t interested in absorbing more than that.

Holland was believed to be seeking upwards of $5 million of Karlsson’s AAV to be retained when the two sides spoke. This has reportedly put a stop to the latest discussions between Edmonton and San Jose.

To make things worse, Sharks GM Mike Grier is also allegedly seeking “a serious package in return and taking back some assets simply to make the money even out isn’t exactly in the cards without a major offer.”

The Oilers might have to turn to other targets on the trade market ahead of March 3rd, possibly in Vladislav Gavrikov from the Columbus Blue Jackets or Shayne Gostisbehere of the Arizona Coyotes or John Klingberg of the Anaheim Ducks, two players they’ve already inquired about.

Maybe the Oilers are pushing for Luke Schenn, which was sent home due to trade protection by the Vancouver Canucks earlier this week.

The trade deadline is less than two weeks away.

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