Two new contenders enter Erik Karlsson sweepstakes

We all get why San Jose Sharks’ Erik Karlsson has garnered a lot of interest in trade chatter: he leads all NHL defensemen in goals (11) and points (28), and is tied for second among NHL skaters in points with Edmonton Oilers’ Leon Draisaitl, just behind Connor McDavid.

Earlier this week, it was reported that the Ottawa Senators had already called the Sharks to check on the trade rumours.

On Friday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman revealed that two other teams could get on the phone to inquire about the possibility of trading for Karlsson, pointing to the Florida Panthers and the Washington Capitals.

Friedman was the insider that reported on Ottawa’s phone call, but pointed out that the Senators aren’t likely to be able to take on Karlsson’s remaining contract, four more years after this season with an $11.5 million dollar AAV, even if the Sharks were to retain the maximum 50 percent on it.

However, he believes the Panthers have money coming off the cap next year and will have flexibility.

As for the Capitals, there is a clear need on the back end as they only have one defenseman signed next year, in John Carlson. Karlsson could be the answer.

Karlsson, also, has a no-movement clause in his contract, could choose the top contender closer to the trade deadline.

Other teams, like the Detroit Red Wings, have been somewhat encouraged by some reports to look into the possibility of adding Karlsson to their roster. But the star defenseman remains in control, and it’d be easy to understand him choosing a true contender to get a shot at a first Stanley Cup before it’s too late.