Kyle Dubas Reportedly Wants to Trade Norris Trophy-Winning Defenseman

Kyle Dubas is prepared to trade Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson, and in a heartbeat no less, as per the latest reports as the Penguins look to be sellers.

At 34, Erik Karlsson can't be in his prime anymore, but he's still a commodity. The Pittsburgh Penguins would trade him "in a heartbeat," as reports have it, which makes him an attractive choice for teams seeking offense on the blue line.

A three-time Norris Trophy recipient, Karlsson remains one of the greatest power-play quarterbacks in the league with great even-strength numbers.

His 40 points rank 11th among NHL blueliners as of Tuesday and his solid play at the 4 Nations Face-Off proved he's still capable of thriving on the grand stage.

But he's not a good match for every club. His lack of defensive prowess is a minus, so he's best employed in a sheltered offensive spot.

His $10-million cap hit for the rest of his contract is another hurdle, although should Pittsburgh offer to cling to 50% may make him more palatable. And Karlsson's hard-sell no-movement clause has him in control over any deal.

Aside from that, he has to generate a lot of excitement, with three playoff clubs jumping out as potential fits right off the bat: the Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, and Florida Panthers.

If Karlsson's willing to go, their GMs owe themselves a look to determine what can be arranged, and we will get more clarity over the next 10 days as the trade deadline draws nearer.

MUST READ

Feb 28  |  By Tom Banks Vancouver Canucks' Contract Offer to Brock Boeser Leaks Publicly

Feb 28  |  By Tom Banks Montreal Canadiens Star Undergoes Season-Ending Knee Surgery

Feb 28  |  By Daniel Lucente Philadelphia Flyers Officially Looking to Trade Former 39-Goal Scorer

Feb 28  |  By Daniel Lucente Evander Kane May Be in His Final Days in Edmonton After Friedman Reveals New Information

Feb 28  |  By Maple Leafs Forward Pulls Back Trade Request

Feb 27  |  By Brad Marchand Goes Viral for Passionate Video Ahead of Four Nations Faceoff Final

Feb 27  |  By David Pastrnak's Latest Comments Suggest Bruins Will Be Big Sellers at the Deadline

Feb 27  |  By Julien Trekker 6-Foot-6 Winger Linked to the New York Rangers at the Trade Deadline

MORE STORIES