Main Photo by: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports
It’s time for some NHL rumours to start the new week. Today may be Super Bowl Sunday, but the NHL might be making news with some possible big trades. Puck-moving defencemen are always a hot commodity and the Edmonton Oilers might need blueline help. Edmonton wants to get a deep run into the Stanley Cup Playoffs. It could be possible if they pull the trigger on an Erik Karlsson trade. Today’s NHL rumours takes a look at that.
NHL Rumours
Oilers and Sharks Talk Erik Karlsson Trade Again
Rumour: TSN’s Chris Johnston first reported that talks between the San Jose Sharks and the Oilers have picked up again. Johnston reports there are considerable financial hurdles in making that happen. However, this is the second time this season that the Pacific Division clubs have discussed a trade for the Swedish blueliner.
Word is the #SJSharks and #oilers have re-engaged on Erik Karlsson trade discussions. There are considerable financial hurdles on both ends, but it's at least the second time this season they've explored a potential fit.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) February 11, 2023
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports that the Oilers need Karlsson to get down to a $6.5-$7.5 million against the cap player in order to swing the trade. This means the Sharks would have to eat around $5 million of cap space until the end of the 2026-27 season. Friedman added the Sharks would likely not want to eat that much salary for that much time.
Could an Erik Karlsson Trade Happen?
There’s a lot of work that needs to be done, but the Oilers would love to bolster their blueline with a massive superstar. Karlsson could be a massive game-changer as the core of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl want to get a deep post-season run.
However, what is Edmonton general manager Ken Holland going to have to give up in order to make this happen? San Jose general manager Mike Grier is going to want to get the maximum value on this trade. There are a lot of moving parts to this deal. It may get down to the wire if it does happen.
