NHL Rumors: Where things stand with Erik Karlsson, Penguins and Hurricanes

The Erik Karlsson race has boiled down to the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Carolina Hurricanes. Here’s a look at where both teams stand.

Okay Metropolitian Division fans, here’s a question for you? Would you rather have a “Storm Surge or a “Burgh Burn”?

Your response would, of course, be “Neither.” However, that’s not an option.

According to Josh Yohe of The Athletic (subscription required), the Carolina Hurricanes, like the Pittsburgh Penguins, are interested in acquiring Erik Karlsson on the trade market.

NHL Rumors: State of the Carolina Hurricanes in Erik Karlsson sweepstakes

The Hurricanes have qualified for the playoffs for the last five seasons. However, the team has never made it past the conference finals.

Carolina could enhance their championship potential by acquiring the San Jose Sharks defenseman. The reigning James Norris Trophy winner had an impressive season with 25 goals and 101 points, earning his seventh All-Star nomination. With the Hurricanes ranking 15th in goals scored last season, Karlsson’s addition could be a valuable asset to the team.

Bringing Karlsson onto the team may require more work. At 33 years old, he is set to have a $11.5 million cap hit this season. However, the Hurricanes only have $3.4 million in cap space available. Even if San Jose is willing to help with Karlsson’s contract, it is doubtful that they will take on a significant portion.

“For people who think we’re going to eat 50 percent of his contract and all this type of stuff, it’s probably not going to happen,” Sharks general manager Mike Grier said, per Sportsnet’s Sonny Sachdeva.

That said, it’s not impossible. During the offseason, clubs can exceed the cap by 10 percent, allowing the Hurricanes to adjust further.

A possible hindrance could be Pittsburgh’s involvement in the pursuit of Karlsson.

NHL Rumors: State of the Pittsburgh Penguins in Erik Karlsson sweepstakes

Dubas might have to involve a third team to help with the trade, as Pittsburgh is over the cap by $2.3 million. Drew O’Connor’s case could be the solution if that doesn’t work. As per NHL regulations, the Penguins will be entitled to a second buyout window once a restricted free agent’s arbitration case is resolved.

The hearing for O’Connor is set for August 4. After that, Pittsburgh will have 72 hours to buy out veteran contracts and create more cap space. It creates a potential deadline for other teams, such as Carolina, to make a move on Karlsson before Pittsburgh does. However, Carolina’s general manager, Don Waddell, should do everything possible to make the move immediately.

Ultimately Karlsson has a full no-trade clause, so if he willingly wants Pittsburgh, it doesn’t matter. But until then, let the debate rage on. What would you rather, Metro fans, a Storm Surge or a Burgh Burn? Pick your poison.