Carolina Hurricanes

Frontrunner Already Emerging in Trade for Erik Karlsson, Says Insider

When the Pittsburgh Penguins start selling ahead of the trade deadline, one team is already a frontrunner for Erik Karlsson.

by
NHL Trade Talk
November 13, 2026

Defenseman Erik Karlsson is on an expiring contract, and the Pittsburgh Penguins will be sellers ahead of the March 1 trade deadline. Much like many of the pending UFAs from that roster, Karlsson is likely to be on the move. The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun has mentioned that the frontrunner already has to be the Carolina Hurricanes.

“And I strongly believe the Hurricanes will come calling again on Karlsson once the Penguins decide it’s time to formally open up his trade market, which I suspect won’t be until the new year,” writes LeBrun in a new column.

After trying to sign John Carlson, LeBrun adds:

“The reigning Stanley Cup champions — who look very much like a team that can repeat — thought a decorated, veteran offensive defenseman such as Carlson could be a nice fit. And well, so would Karlsson, who at 36, still skates so flawlessly and has high-level playmaking ability and vision.”

Plenty of teams will come calling, but Karlsson has the final word thanks to his full no-move clause. If Carolina keeps rolling like this, it’s hard to see why a star still searching for his first Stanley Cup wouldn’t want in.

Karlsson Will Be Given the Option on a Trade

When Penguins GM Kyle Dubas was asked about Karlsson’s status and whether there has been any talks about his future, Dubas responded that they would treat all their veterans on expiring contracts with respect. Those who have no-moves or no-trades will be honored. He added, “The best way to go through that is to get them through the year, and if there’s a time where both people want to jump, then you jump and get it done.”

“Dubas has a lot of respect for Karlsson, so there’s no question this will be handled in an orderly way.”

Karlsson came into the weekend atop the Penguins’ scoring list with 19 points (16 assists) through 19 games, on the heels of a 66-point campaign last year. There will be interest in his services if he becomes available ahead of the deadline.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Wild, Sharks, Red Wings & Oilers