Monster Trade Looming Between the Canadiens and Penguins? Norris-Winning Defenseman May Be Available

In both cases, the anticipated results are yet to be fully realized, but the problem is more pronounced with the Pittsburgh Penguins, as the team is five points away from a playoff spot.

The expectation was to inject a final dose of hope for a possible Stanley Cup conquest with the current group of leaders. However, after 31 games and a record of 15-13-3, it seems that a conclusion of failure is approaching.

The situation is so critical that discussions about the possibility of Karlsson being traded again have emerged. Dan Kingerski, who covers the team for Pittsburgh Hockey Now, reported crucial information on this matter.

Apparently, if the Penguins find themselves far from the playoff race, the possibility of a trade would be seriously considered.

Many observers have criticized the coherence of the Swedish defenseman's play in Pittsburgh, particularly because he shares the same position as Kristopher Letang, another excellent right-handed defenseman. Unfortunately, this seems to be confirmed.

Although Karlsson has had interesting offensive performances, with six goals and 22 points in 31 games, the $10M investment in him, even with the San Jose Sharks retaining $1.5M, does not seem to be yielding the expected results for the team.

Karlsson could even be the first domino to fall in a long series within the organization. Are we finally witnessing the end of the Penguins' era as we have known it for the last 15 years?