The NHL offseason is heating up, and trade rumors are swirling around veteran defenseman Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins. With two years remaining on his hefty $10 million contract, speculation grows that the Penguins might need to retain salary to facilitate a trade. Karlsson's performance this season, highlighted by 53 points, demonstrates he still possesses elite skills, especially when paired with high-caliber teammates. However, Pittsburgh's roster already features Kris Letang, whose game has slowed, making Karlsson's fit in the lineup questionable. The Penguins face a challenge in finding a suitable trade partner willing to absorb Karlsson's full salary, and retaining some of it could be necessary for an effective deal. With the clock ticking on Karlsson's career, he may favor opportunities to compete for a championship over salary concerns.