The 2025-26 NHL season is gearing up, and trade rumors continue to swirl. The Pittsburgh Penguins may be looking to move several players, including Erik Karlsson, but one Canadian team is reportedly out of the race to acquire him.
As the offseason progresses, NHL insiders are digging into which players might be on the move to bolster rosters around the league. This year, the Penguins have already undergone several changes—and more may be on the way.
The team recently signed Sidney Crosby to a two-year extension, hoping to make another Stanley Cup push with the veteran star. However, to create space for new talent, the Penguins may need to part ways with some key pieces.
Report: Canadian team reportedly out of the Erik Karlsson sweepstakes
In recent days, reports have surfaced that the Penguins are listening to trade offers for Erik Karlsson. The 35-year-old remains one of the NHL‘s premier puck-moving defensemen, so it’s no surprise there’s considerable interest.
According to The Athletic, Karlsson is open to a trade—but only if it’s to a Stanley Cup contender. Adding to that, an NHL insider claims that one Canadian team has closed the door on a potential deal for the veteran blueliner.
Rumors previously linked the Toronto Maple Leafs to Karlsson, but David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reported that he hasn’t heard of any serious movement from the Leafs regarding a potential trade.
While there’s still plenty of time for Toronto to put together a trade package, the team is reportedly still focused on processing Mitch Marner’s departure to the Golden Knights and doesn’t see Karlsson as a top priority at the moment.