Erik Karlsson Makes Admission About Future With Penguins

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Erik Karlsson Makes Admission About Future With Penguins

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Sep 18, 2026 12:15 PM ET

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson has entered training camp with one year remaining on his eight-year, $92 million contract and an uncertain long-term future.

However, the 36-year-old won’t allow that uncertainty to become a distraction. Pittsburgh Hockey Now’s Dan Kingerski reported Thursday that Karlsson has not held extension talks with the Penguins and has barely considered what comes after this season.

“I have not,” Karlsson said when asked whether he had thought about his future. “I’m enjoying my time right now. You know, I’m 36 years old. Feel really good. I’ve got a lot of years left in me, and the future is not something that I’ve really thought about.”

It’s Day 1, and Erik Karlsson is already spitting truth and enjoying the ride. Some interesting nuggets:

Karlsson Says Penguins ‘In a Weird Spot’; Gives Masterclass on Future https://t.co/kP7qp6D76a
— Dan Kingerski (@TheDanKingerski) September 17, 2026

Karlsson scored 15 goals and 66 points in 75 games last season. The defenseman acknowledged at the start of camp that Pittsburgh is in an unusual position that could influence what happens next.

“I think that the situation is pretty (much) a given what it is and what it’s not. I’ve got one year left,” Karlsson said. “Our team is in a weird stage, I think. So we’ll see how it goes this year.”

Kingerski reported that Karlsson could decide to re-sign with Pittsburgh if things go well at the start of the season. The defenseman, meanwhile, made it clear that he enjoys the Penguins and his teammates.

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson (65) carries the puck.John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

“All I can say is that I enjoy myself,” Karlsson said. “I like being here, and I’m looking forward to starting camp with the guys and seeing what we can offer for this year.

“I know where I’m at. I know I feel good enough that the future is not something that I think I have to worry about. I’m going to stay in the present.”

Karlsson is entering the final season of his contract with an $11.5 million salary. The Penguins will open their regular season on Sept. 30 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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