NHL free agency: 5 teams who need to sign Erik Karlsson

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 28: {L-R} Nikita Kucherov #86 of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Brayden Point #21 of the Tampa Bay Lightning, and Erik Karlsson #65 of the Ottawa Senators wait to be introduced during the 2018 Honda NHL All-Star Game at Amalie Arena on January 28, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images) /

3 of 6

Photo by Francois Lacasse/NHLI via Getty Images /

4. Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens blueline could use a dynamic puck mover. If only they had someone like P.K. Subban. Anyway, Karlsson would make a ton of sense for Montreal as far as a roster fit. Shea Weber, Jeff Petry, and Karlsson would form a heck of a trio down the right side.

Sure, the left side would still need some help, but it’s reasonable to expect one of those three excellent defensemen to play on his opposite side.

Karlsson could also help the Canadiens address their power play issues. He’s one of the best point men in the NHL when it comes to the man advantage. Karlsson ranks fifth among defensemen over the past three seasons (minimum 250 minutes) with 5.70 points per hour on the power play.

5 Offseason Predictions For The Habs. light. Related Story

Furthermore, if you look at Montreal’s roster, they lack top-notch skill. You need that to win in today’s NHL. Karlsson would be a significant step in the right direction in that regard.

However, the Canadiens might not want to have yet another expensive contract on their team. They’re already committing $10 million annually to Carey Price and Weber’s contract isn’t pretty either.

The Canadiens could probably sell Karlsson on their long-term outlook thanks to their young players and deep roster. And if Montreal’s feeling the pressure, they certainly have the cap space to make something happen.

Home/Free Agency