Karlsson intrigue continues

After John Tavares, the most intriguing story left in the NHL’s post season maneuvers  is Erik Karlsson of the Ottawa Senators.

Karlsson has one year left on his current contract in Ottawa but things have gone terribly wring in the club since nearly making it to the Stanley Cup Final two seasons back.

After losing to the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 7 of the Easter Conference Final in overtime, the Sens finished 15th in the conference managing to avoid ignominy by just beating out the Buffalo Sabres for last.

As reported by Brian Jennings of Pro Hockey News on the @PHN_PODCAST last month, there were deeply issues between Karlsson and Mike Hoffman who was shipped out via trade ahead of free agency.

Hoffman was traded to the San Jose Sharks in June and was then given a bus ticket to Sunrise Florida and the Panthers.

There are a number of clubs that benefit from Karlsson‘s services but the attendant price may be too high for those that have shot their bolt already.

Drew Doughty signed an eight-year $88 million deal in Los Angeles and there is thought that is now the bar for defensemen.

On the other hand, Karlsson has led or tied for the lead in scoring in Ottawa for five years; even during the good years.  Last season he accumulated 62 points on nine goals.

At 28 years of age, Karlsson has plenty of mile left.

Defenseman Erik Karlsson (#65) of the Ottawa Senators – file photo by Lewis Bleiman

NHL Tonight suggested the Dallas Stars are the lading contender but the New York Rangers have gone quiet and unremarkable in the free agent spending fray and Tampa Bay Lightning, San Jose Sharks, Vegas Golden Knights, and Washington Capitals have been on the conversation list with Karlsson.

The cyberbullying issues with Hoffman may have an impact on the Karlsson’s decision-making.  With Hoffman in Florida, a move west would seem a good decision, stay away from the antagonist. On the other hand, cyberbullying has no borders.

Rangers general manager Jeff Gorton has been looking for veteran leadership for his suddenly young club and he has assets to trade for Karlsson and maybe enough cap space to make it happen.