The Detroit Red Wings may be one player away from transforming into a true contender—and that player could well be Erik Karlsson.
During his tenure with the San Jose Sharks from 2018 to 2022, the team quietly established itself as one of the league's premier penalty-killing units, ranking second overall in that span. Notably, in his first season with San Jose.
Karlsson ranked third among defensemen in short-handed ice time, trailing only Brent Burns and Marc-Édouard Vlasic. Though his role on the PK was later reduced to conserve energy for power play duties, his early deployment underscored his versatility and hockey IQ.
Detroit, meanwhile, showcased one of the NHL’s most potent power play units during the 2024–25 campaign, finishing fourth in overall efficiency and tied with the Ottawa Senators for the league lead in total power play goals (64).
The addition of Karlsson would give head coach Todd McLellan unprecedented flexibility. While Karlsson could feasibly slot into any situation, it is the penalty kill where Detroit arguably needs the most support. Given that context, and McLellan’s strategic leanings, expect Karlsson to be integrated into the PK rotation should a trade materialize.
It’s an enticing proposition, particularly given that the Red Wings have constructed a sturdy foundation capable of contending deep into the postseason. Yet, as currently composed, the roster appears to lack that elusive “next gear” required to push through the league’s elite.
With approximately $12 million in available cap space, it would be a missed opportunity if Detroit failed to leverage its financial flexibility to secure at least one more impact player.
Enter Karlsson: the veteran defenseman has tallied 109 points (22 goals, 87 assists) over 164 regular season games with the Pittsburgh Penguins and remains under contract for two more seasons at a $10 million cap hit. The question now shifts to Pittsburgh—what kind of return should the Pens realistically expect in a potential deal?
Trade ideas involving Erik Karlsson
If this writer were steering the ship, the first order of business in acquiring Erik Karlsson would be unloading J.T. Compher’s $5.1 million cap hit. From there, the framework takes shape: Erik Gustafsson and a 2026 second-round pick form the foundation. If necessary, a sweetener—either a 2026 third-rounder or Jonatan Berggren—can be added to close the gap.
Some critics have pushed back, arguing that Detroit already boasts a dynamic power play and doesn’t need Karlsson. But that line of reasoning overlooks a key point: Karlsson isn’t just a power-play specialist. In San Jose, he was an underrated force on the penalty kill—a role he handled with poise and intelligence.
A veteran of the league since 2009, Karlsson has spent the last 17 seasons adapting, evolving, and—most importantly—serving as a team-first presence. You don’t log nearly two decades in the NHL without knowing when to step up for your teammates.
This is precisely the kind of move Detroit needs. As we’ve previously noted, the Red Wings are at their best when they blend veteran savvy with youthful swagger. Karlsson may be on the older side of 30, but his shot remains as potent as ever—and his influence in the locker room would be immediate.
With Karlsson anchoring the blue line, Detroit would position itself not just for a playoff run—but for sustained contention.
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