NHL Rumor Roundup: Hurricanes Linked To Erik Karlsson, The Latest On The Blackhawks

Earlier this week, we noted recent reports claiming the Pittsburgh Penguins and Chicago Blackhawks are open for business.

Erik Karlsson is among the Penguins believed to be trade candidates. The 36-year-old defenseman is in the final season of his contract and UFA-eligible next summer. The only active three-time Norris Trophy winner, he currently leads his struggling club with 19 points.

On Thursday, TSN's Pierre LeBrun linked Karlsson to the Carolina Hurricanes, calling them a team worth watching.

LeBrun said the Hurricanes pursued the puck-moving blueliner in 2023 before the Penguins acquired him from the San Jose Sharks, and they’re still interested in him. He also pointed out the Hurricanes attempted to sign John Carlsson before he chose the Tampa Bay Lightning, so they’re definitely in the market for an experienced, mobile right-shot rearguard.

As for the Blackhawks, LeBrun reported earlier this week that they hoped to add a scoring winger, but they’re "not too picky" given the difficulty in making trades this early in the season. He also indicated that they were "pretty open-minded" about shaking up their roster.

The Athletic's Scott Powers reported that Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson is open to adding a veteran defenseman, especially since off-season acquisition Bowen Byram remains sidelined. During a press conference on Wednesday, Davidson told reporters that he’s seeking experience in his trade targets, followed by defensive reliability.

Spittin’ Chiclets podcast co-host Keith Yandle said the Blackhawks attempted to acquire Rickard Rakell, but the Penguins winger used his no-trade clause to nix the deal.

Yandle claimed that was why the Penguins recently recalled forward Rutger McGroarty, but The Hockey News' Kelsey Surmacz pointed out that the real reason was an injury to forward Ville Koivunen.

Surmacz noted that Rakell may not have had to reject a trade pitch from the Blackhawks since Penguins management likely already had his eight-team no-trade list for this season. They might’ve asked Rakell anyway as due diligence.

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