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NHL Trade Rumors: Predators have discussed Erik Karlsson with Senators

By Dave Stevenson

OTTAWA, ON - FEBRUARY 17: Ottawa Senators Defenceman Erik Karlsson (65) waits for a face-off during second period National Hockey League action between the New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators on February 17, 2018, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada. (Photo by Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
OTTAWA, ON - FEBRUARY 17: Ottawa Senators Defenceman Erik Karlsson (65) waits for a face-off during second period National Hockey League action between the New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators on February 17, 2018, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada. (Photo by Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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According to the latest NHL Trade Rumors, the Nashville Predators have discussed an Erik Karlsson trade with the Ottawa Senators

The Nashville Predators are looking to add a piece or two as they look to win their first Stanley Cup. They came extremely close last season, making a Stanley Cup Final appearance before eventually bowing out to the Pittsburgh Penguins in six games. According to the latest NHL trade rumors, the Predators are considering a trade for the biggest fish of them all – Ottawa Senators captain Erik Karlsson.

Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic discussed the rumors in his latest article (subscription required). The Predators have had discussions with the Senators about the two-time Norris Trophy winner. Ottawa is open to trading their captain, but likely won’t surrender him without a huge return.

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This would be an interesting move for Nashville. Karlsson would make an already lethal blueline even more productive. The Predators already have P.K. Subban, Mattias Ekholm, Roman Josi, and Ryan Ellis. Adding Karlsson to the mix would make them extremely difficult to match up against.

It’s worth noting the two-time Norris Trophy defenseman who be more than a rental should he be moved at the deadline. Karlsson will be a free agent after next season, which would allow him to potentially influence two postseasons.

My Take

Personally, I don’t see him as a fit for Nashville. This isn’t to say he wouldn’t be an upgrade. Karlsson would be a significant addition to any blueline. Especially if he’s healthy. However, Karlsson hasn’t been quite as dominant this season, perhaps because he hasn’t fully recovered from his ankle injury from last season.

The Predators should be focusing on adding to their forward group. Currently, that’s where they need the most help. Even with 2018 Olympics star Eeli Tolvanen likely coming to the NHL once his KHL season is over, the Predators could use more scoring.

Next: 4 Teams Who Should Trade For Erik Karlsson

Perhaps this is something Nashville can look at in the offseason. It would make more sense then. With Ellis and Josi scheduled to become free agents in the not so distant future, if they aren’t confident they can keep either, maybe one can be traded to help get more assets to get Karlsson.

For updated NHL trade rumors, check out our Rumors page and our NHL trade deadline tracker.

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