Sharks Open to Trading Erik Karlsson, Had Preliminary Talks With Teams

As per Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, the San Jose Sharks might be looking for ways to shake up the right side of their blue line and have had some very preliminary trade talks with other teams about moving veteran d-man Erik Karlsson. Friedman reports that those talks took place during the season with a couple of teams.

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Friedman isn’t sold that this is a move the Sharks are going to make. He’s instead reporting that the Sharks are exploring the idea of splitting up Karlsson and Brent Burns because the two haven’t worked out as well as the organization would have liked. It’s a lot of money for the Sharks to have tied up in their right side and the Sharks might be trying to see if there is a better alternative.

Keep in mind, the team is also looking for a new GM, so much of what took place in terms of conversations might change when new management is put in place.

Friedman notes that in a tight salary cap world, moving one of Karlsson or Burns would be an option. He didn’t say anything about Burns being on the trade block, but Burns’ age might have a lot to do with that. Karlsson is still just 31 and while he’s got time left on his contract and he’s a heavy cap hit, convincing a team to take on Burns’ $8 million deal at the age of 37 and for three additional seasons seems like a tall task. Friedman noted, if the opportunity comes where the Sharks can get something they like for Karlsson, they might try.

Karlsson’s Contract Is Interesting

Karlsson has a $10 million signing bonus this year, which means if someone trades for him after July 1st, they’ll get him next season for $2 million. The following two seasons, his signing bonuses are just $1 million. His signing bonuses go up again around the time the salary cap is expected to increase by a hefty amount.

Karlsson also has a full no-move clause worked into his contract. He’ll have a lot of say as to where he goes, if he does approve a deal.

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