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Sharks looking to break the bank for Erik Karlsson?

June 16, 2019, 6:11 PM ET [21 Comments]
Steve Palumbo
San Jose Sharks Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
A "thank you" Instagram post from Erik Karlsson (following the San Jose Sharks playoff exit) sure sounded like a goodbye message to the team and its fans. Maybe we should pump the breaks a little bit on the goodbyes. The Sharks appear to be very much in the mix to retain the services of one of the leagues elite defenders.



According to Elliott Friedman the Sharks are willing to break the bank to retain the services of Karlsson.

"It is believed (the Sharks) made (Karlsson) an offer that will challenge, if not surpass, Drew Doughty’s extension from last summer. Three weeks ago, I thought Karlsson was going back east for family reasons and a travel schedule that’s easier on the body. San Jose needs a decision, conversations have intensified, and I think they’ve got a shot."


Friedman is as dialed in as any of the leagues' insiders. What he writes is as close to gospel as we have in sports media. If this is true, and I have no reason to believe it's not than EK would be cuckoo to walk away from San Jose now. Amirite?

This could be a game changer for the Sharks. The narrative going into free agency was that EK was as good as gone. Most "experts" believe Karlsson wants to play on the east coast where his family is more comfortable. That may still be the case, but a whole lotta green and winning franchise hell-bent on winning the Stanley Cup may be the proverbial offer EK can't refuse.

Let's face it, when Karlsson is healthy he is a difference maker. We saw glimpses of that last season and in the playoffs. Imagine a healthy and comfortable Erik Karlsson on the Sharks blueline? That could the difference between another early playoff exit or finally getting over the Stanley Cup hump.

The last two season have seen the Washington Capitals and St. Louis Blues win their franchise's first Cups... why can't the Sharks be next? Keep EK and the chance at a 'chip is that much closer.

Two weeks and counting until free agency begins. Hang onto to your tukes or toques, depending on which country your from. It's going to be a fun summer.

Thanks for reading,
Steve
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