Keep Carlson or trade him in dilemma
Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey now:: So, yes, the dance continues with Erik Karlsson. The defenseman signed the huge contract (with another two seasons of AAV of $11.5 million, but $10 million for Pittsburgh). Carlson wants to stay, but Kyle Dubas hopes that the action must match the ambition. Basically, Carlson is responsible for what has happened in Pittsburgh over the past two seasons. And, he can help them get hurt.
Obviously, the players, team and general managers all have frustration. Some also pointed out that Karlsson is far from the only player on the ship. Flashing with great games, but that's too big for a team full of veterans.
There is enough talent to help iron some of the poorer games, and it feels like the trade market for the Swedish defensive players is not there or drastically reduced. Naturally, more about this is below.
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Erik Karlsson and the reality of Pittsburgh
David Pagnotta in the fourth phase: This starts to become a person who really wants to believe. Once his $5 million bonus enters Erik Karlsson's bank account on July 1, the possibility of summer is possible. Now, Carlson has a full NMC and is willing to compete in the Stanley Cup contender. This is very clear.
However, there is a reality that Karlsson's skills and assets have dropped by 34. He is not the 100-point player Pittsburgh saw at the start of the deal. Again, he may be better than 50-55 points, with a distance of -24. Sweden's Blueliner has too many defensive turnovers to calculate, especially early in the season.
Carlson can move, but the question is, is this more moving parts than anyone would be willing to separate?
Matt Grzelcyk and his future in Pittsburgh
Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey: Then, there is another Pittsburgh defender. Matt Grzelcyk is an interesting case, Kyle Dubas knows that, and now Pittsburgh knows that Grzelcyk is not a game changer. He is a second or third defender who can provide some offensive popularity. Considering that Conor Timmins may not be ready for the top four defensive role.
Also, Dubas may not be able to go all out at once. This means that having Grzelcyk around can be beneficial. However, not everyone agrees. Dan Kingerski declared that Grzelcyk was 5'10 inches tall and 181 pounds, too small to play his own weight. In short, he contributed to the softer defense. Can he be a good addition? Sure, but is it worth signing?
Grzelcyk can help with strong games, but can't require too many teams on the blue line like Pittsburgh. His return is entirely determined by what Dubas can do this summer.
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