Penguins ace Karlsson deal, Sharks’ light return disappoints
The reigning Norris Trophy winner, Erik Karlsson, has been involved in a significant three-team trade, adding excitement to the hockey world during a typically dull period of the season. The Pittsburgh Penguins successfully acquired the star defenseman, making a move that could potentially impact the Eastern Conference playoff race next season. As part of the deal, the San Jose Sharks are furthering their rebuild and benefiting from the addition of key players.
Here’s a breakdown of the trade:
Pittsburgh Penguins receive:
- Erik Karlsson, the talented defenseman
- Forward Rem Pitlick
- Prospect forward Dillon Hamaliuk
- San Jose Sharks’ 2026 third-round draft pick
San Jose Sharks receive:
- Forwards Mikael Granlund and Mike Hoffman
- Defenseman Jan Rutta
- Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2024 first-round draft pick (top-10 protected)
Montreal Canadiens receive:
- Defenseman Jeff Petry
- Goalie Casey DeSmith
- Prospect forward Nathan Legare
- Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2025 second-round draft pick
To facilitate the trade, San Jose will retain $1.5 million of Karlsson’s $11.5-million cap hit over the next four seasons. Additionally, Pittsburgh will cover 25% of Petry’s $6.25-million AAV for two more years, approximately $1.6 million, while Montreal will not retain any salary.
This mega-deal promises to bring a wave of changes to the teams involved and has generated considerable excitement among hockey enthusiasts as they await the unfolding of the upcoming season.
The reigning Norris Trophy winner, Erik Karlsson, has been involved in a significant three-team trade, adding excitement to the hockey world during a typically dull period of the season. The Pittsburgh Penguins successfully acquired the star defenseman, making a move that could potentially impact the Eastern Conference playoff race next season. As part of the…