Erik Karlsson-Maple Leafs Link ‘More Than Just Hearsay,’ Claims NHL Insider originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are actively exploring trade possibilities for star defenseman Erik Karlsson, and his next destination could reignite a longtime rivalry in the Atlantic Division.
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According to RG’s James Murphy, the Toronto Maple Leafs are interested in the former Ottawa Senators blueliner and have emerged as a potential landing spot for the 35-year-old.
“There’s more than just hearsay when it comes to the Leafs and Erik Karlsson right now,” Murphy wrote, quoting an NHL source. “There’s probably going to be salary retained, but the thought that there’s some kind of bad blood between Dubas and the Leafs still that would prevent something like this is crazy.”
Karlsson spent nine seasons with the Senators, won two Norris Trophies in that span, and remains popular among fans in Canada’s capital.
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The Leafs are coming off losing a star of their own in forward Mitch Marner, who departed for the Vegas Golden Knights in a sign-and-trade just before the start of free agency.
While not a forward, Karlsson’s offensive prowess from the blue line could provide some offensive help to the Leafs next season.
Murphy touches on another report linking the Maple Leafs to other potential trade targets, such as New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton, because of his power-play skillset.
Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson (65) skates during warm-up.Bob Frid-Imagn Images
The Maple Leafs have around $5.3 million in cap space, which means landing Karlsson’s current $10 million cap hit—after the San Jose Sharks retained roughly 13% in his last move—would require Pittsburgh to retain additional salary.
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The source told RG that if both sides can agree on financial terms, “this is a business” and past history between Kyle Dubas and Toronto management “doesn’t matter.”
Karlsson is under contract for two more seasons as part of the eight-year, $92 million contract that he signed with the Sharks in 2019. He appeared in all 82 games last season scoring 54 points, including 11 goals for the Penguins.
Related: Red Wings-Penguins Talks on $92 Million Player ‘Intensifying,’ Per Report
Related: Penguins and Erik Karlsson Reportedly Open to Trade Under Clear Conditions
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 11, 2025, where it first appeared.