The Pittsburgh Penguins decided to keep their veteran core intact for the 2023-24 season by re-signing Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang. To further strengthen their roster, the Penguins acquired star defenseman Erik Karlsson in a three-team trade involving the San Jose Sharks and Montreal Canadiens.
Karlsson, a three-time Norris Trophy winner, is signed through the 2026-27 season and brings offensive talent to the Penguins’ blue line. The Sharks will also retain a portion of Karlsson’s salary in the deal.
Karlsson’s addition to the Penguins
The Penguins have a veteran core led by Sidney Crosby, Malkin, and Letang. Along with Karlsson, the team also signed defenseman Ryan Graves, forward Reilly Smith, and extended the contract of their goaltender Tristan Jarry. The addition of Karlsson strengthens the Penguins’ defensive pairings and provides another scoring threat from the blue line.
Karlsson had an outstanding season with the Sharks, recording 101 points and becoming just the sixth defenseman in NHL history to achieve a 100-point season. He brings a much-needed offensive boost to the Penguins, who ranked 16th in goals-per-game last season.
Stanley Cup chances
After missing the playoffs last season, the Penguins made significant moves to improve their chances of contending for the Stanley Cup. Crosby continues to play at an elite level, and the team has forward depth with Malkin, Smith, Jake Guentzel, and Rickard Rakell. The success of the Penguins will largely depend on the performance of goaltender Tristan Jarry, who needs to bounce back from a challenging season. Despite tough competition in the Eastern Conference, the Penguins have the potential to secure a playoff spot and make a deep run in the postseason.
