NHL trade rumor: Carolina Hurricanes eye Erik Karlsson to fuel Stanley Cup push in NHL 2025-26 season
The Carolina Hurricanes are not content with just making deep playoff runs; they aspire to win the Stanley Cup. After another Eastern Conference Finals exit, the front office is reportedly exploring a major addition to finally push them over the edge.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli has linked Carolina to Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson, suggesting the Hurricanes may have 'spent time investigating' a deal.
Top 5 Erik Karlsson Career Plays | NHL Countdown
Erik Karlsson's offensive firepower remains elite despite his age
At 35, Erik Karlsson may not be the all-situations defenseman he once was, but his offensive skill remains elite. The three-time Norris Trophy winner (2012, 2015, 2023) has tallied 22 goals and 109 points over the past two seasons. Even on a middling Pittsburgh Penguins team, he's shown he can still move the puck and drive offense at a high level.
Erik Karlsson: Team Photo Day | Pittsburgh Penguins
Adding Karlsson could reshape the defensive structure in Carolina
Adding Karlsson wouldn't come without complications. His current cap hit stands at $11.5 million through 2028, a figure too large for Carolina to absorb outright. Seravalli noted that teams would only bite if the number dropped to the $7 million–$7.5 million range, meaning the Penguins would need to retain salary or involve a third party.
Salary cap math is the only real obstacle for a potential blockbuster
The biggest hurdle in a Karlsson trade is financial. The Hurricanes are tight on cap space and don't have any obvious expiring contracts on the blue line.
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While the front office has room to maneuver, it would take creative accounting to land a player with Karlsson's salary, no matter how badly they want a Cup.
Still, desperation can drive bold moves. The Florida Panthers have set the standard after back-to-back Stanley Cup titles and retaining key free agents this summer. If Carolina believes Karlsson is the difference-maker, they need to match that level, expect an aggressive push, especially if the Penguins are willing to meet halfway on salary.
Karlsson may not be a perfect fit, but in the pursuit of a championship, perfection can be a negotiable goal.
Also Read:
Edmonton Oilers linked to $27m veteran Jonathan Marchessault, pressure mounts as Oilers eye scoring boost for NHL 2025-26 season
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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