Leafs (and many other teams) interested in Erik Karlsson

Right now, the Leafs have just under $5M available under payroll to maneuver around.

But if there is a deal, we agree that it would make sense for the Penguins to keep part of Karlsson’s salary to facilitate the deal. In Pittsburgh, we’ve got plenty of rope… and we know that the team won’t necessarily be competitive in the next two years either.

When you look at Toronto’s defense, you realize there are some good players in place.

On the other hand, adding an offensive player like Karlsson – especially with the loss of Marner – could make some sense if Craig Berube is able to use him to his full potential.

At the same time… we know that the Leafs have certain defensive shortcomings, and adding Erik Karlsson won’t help there either.

The Swede’s good offensively… but his defensive skills are in question.

Seeing the Penguins trade Karlsson would make sense.

Kyle Dubas needs to maximize his value… and keeping him in Pittsburgh, with a club that isn’t going anywhere, isn’t going to do it.

I wonder, though, what said player value looks like on the trade market.

But hey.

The bottom line is that the Leafs and several other clubs have their noses in the pie.

Overtime

– It’s up to him to take advantage.

– It’s going to be action in Laval!

– Yikes.

– He’s been there, too.

– Funny number for a defenseman.