As the NHL offseason unfolds, trade speculation continues to shape conversations around top contenders. One of the most striking proposals involves a potential deal between the Edmonton Oilers and Pittsburgh Penguins, with two of the league’s most recognizable stars—Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby—at the center of their respective franchises.
TSN’s Travis Yost has suggested a high-profile trade scenario: the Oilers acquire Erik Karlsson from the Penguins in exchange for Darnell Nurse. Both defensemen carry significant contracts, with a combined total value of over $166 million. Though purely speculative at this stage, the proposal has drawn attention for its potential to address roster and salary cap challenges for both clubs.
“Why Edmonton?” Yost wrote. “Adding more offensive firepower to this Western Conference juggernaut would seem silly at first blush, but there are two compelling reasons to consider it.”
Could a Karlsson–Nurse swap help both sides?
For Edmonton, acquiring Karlsson would provide an elite puck-moving defenseman to complement its offensive core. His $11.5 million AAV contract includes a full no-move clause, but a trade could be possible if the right terms are met. Yost suggests Pittsburgh might retain a portion of his salary to facilitate a deal.
Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on April 11, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
NHL insider Chris Johnston commented on Karlsson’s situation in Pittsburgh: “He’s arrived in Pittsburgh as they’re headed in the wrong direction. I have to think he’s going to get antsy at a certain point here.”
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On the other side of the proposed deal is Darnell Nurse, a 30-year-old blueliner known for his physical presence and heavy minutes. Though his offensive output dipped last season—posting just 33 points in 76 games—Nurse remains a key figure on Edmonton’s blue line. His $9.25 million contract runs through 2030, creating long-term cap pressure for the Oilers.
Cap strategy and roster reset in focus
A deal of this scale could provide mutual relief. Edmonton, having reached the Stanley Cup Final in back-to-back seasons without a title, may see Karlsson as a final offensive upgrade from the back end. Nurse’s exit would open cap space down the line, especially if Karlsson’s shorter contract expires within two years.
For Pittsburgh, who missed the playoffs in 2024–25, bringing in a younger, durable defenseman like Nurse could help stabilize a roster still centered around Crosby. At this point in the Penguins’ cycle, a more defensively reliable player with long-term control might suit their direction better than a high-cost, offense-first veteran.
Both teams are navigating different kinds of pressure—the Oilers aiming to capitalize on McDavid and Leon Draisaitl’s prime years, and the Penguins seeking to stay competitive as their core ages. While there is no indication that either front office is actively pursuing this trade, the framework Yost outlines reflects the broader tension between performance, payroll, and timing.
Karlsson’s no-move clause still a factor
While Karlsson holds a full no-move clause, he could consider waiving it for the right destination. Edmonton’s competitive window, elite talent, and postseason aspirations might present the type of opportunity the veteran is willing to explore. That said, no talks have been confirmed between the organizations, and any move would depend on complex financial negotiations.
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As speculation continues, both franchises must assess whether bold changes are necessary—or whether internal improvement will be enough heading into the 2025–26 NHL season.
