Karlsson to the Motor City? Penguins, Red Wings Reportedly in Deepening Talks
The trade winds are picking up again — and this time, they’re blowing toward Detroit.
Multiple league sources suggest that the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings are engaged in intensifying discussions surrounding defenseman Erik Karlsson. There’s a growing sense around the league that these talks have moved past the exploratory stage, with both sides weighing the logistics of a potential deal. Mainly B-level prospects and middle picks have been thrown around as of now.
The biggest hurdle, of course, remains Karlsson’s contract. The reigning Norris Trophy winner from 2023 carries a hefty $11.5 million AAV through 2026-27, and it’s clear the Penguins would need to retain a significant portion of that cap hit for any trade to cross the finish line. Exactly how much salary GM Kyle Dubas is willing to retain remains unclear, but any move will likely involve multi-layered cap maneuvering and possibly a third team (Seattle?) if Detroit needs further relief.
For Detroit, the interest makes sense. General Manager Steve Yzerman has been methodically building toward a playoff breakthrough, and Karlsson represents a bold swing that could instantly elevate their top-four and power play. The Wings already have a strong blue line foundation with Seider and others, but Karlsson brings a dimension of elite puck movement and transition they still lack.
While his defensive play remains polarizing, Karlsson is still among the NHL’s best at tilting the ice in his team’s favor. He posted 56 points in 82 games last season — a decline from his 101-point campaign in 2022–23, but still top-tier production for a defenseman in today’s game.
From Pittsburgh’s perspective, shedding Karlsson’s deal — or even a portion of it — could mark a critical step in their effort to get younger, faster, and more financially flexible. With Sidney Crosby’s future uncertain and the team having missed the playoffs two years in a row, the front office may see this summer as a turning point.
The return in any Karlsson deal is still moving, but it’s almost guaranteed to include a small mix of future assets and draft pick(s). The return wont be anything too crazy as long as the Karlsson is the only player from Pittsburgh involved
It’s also worth noting: Detroit isn’t alone. Other teams are monitoring the situation, particularly if Pittsburgh is open to retaining 30–50% of the salary. But insiders suggest Detroit is the most aggressive suitor right now, and there’s mutual interest in making something happen.
Whether this ends with Karlsson donning the winged wheel or not, it’s clear that the Penguins are at least open for business — and Karlsson could be one of the first major dominos to fall this offseason.
Stay tuned as the story develops.