The Pittsburgh Penguins aren't alone in the Erik Karlsson Sweepstakes, but could there be more teams?
While the hunt for Erik Karlsson rolls on for the Pittsburgh Penguins, the future Hall of Fame defender has another trophy to add to his collection and opened up about his trade process.
Karlsson was in his native Sweden receiving the Golden Puck as the country’s best hockey player, and was asked about the Penguins and any other teams that might in interested in his services.
In an interview with Adam Johansson of Expressen in Sweden, Karlsson noted that there have been over four teams to show interest.
The Penguins and Carolina Hurricanes have been the two most likely destinations for a few weeks, but Karlsson noted that the Toronto Maple Leafs and Seattle Kraken were in contact at one point.
Despite saying that a few other teams have also shown interest, it isn’t clear if those teams have returned to the poker table with Pittsburgh and Carolina.
Karlsson said that he spoke with the Penguins and their new front office staff in Kyle Dubas and a former teammate in Jason Spezza.
According to Karlsson, the talks between himself and Spezza have avoided busines, but that doesn’t mean the appeal of joining a friend isn’t there.
When asked if Pittsburgh is at the top of his list, Karlsson said he’s open to many opportunities; his goal is to find the best option to win.
Can the Penguins offer that? It’s tough to say considering they’re the only team to have talked to Karlsson that missed the postseason.
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