Erik Karlsson acquired by Detroit Red Wings' conference rival in proposed trade

Pittsburgh is at crossroads: an aging core, a president thinking long-term, and new ownership preparing a franchise reset all point to bold moves this offseason.

While forwards like Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell have been linked to trades, Karlsson is now the center of attention.

In a report, Karlsson was involved in a trade scenario with the Carolina Hurricanes.

The proposed deal would send Karlsson to the Carolina Hurricanes for two seasons at $8 million, with Pittsburgh receiving Shayne Gostisbehere and three future assets in return.

Carolina, which lost Brent Burns in free agency, is desperate for offensive punch from the right side of their blue line.

Karlsson could give them the elite production they need.

Pittsburgh would benefit from the trade too.

Gostisbehere could run their power play, while the three prospects or picks would provide flexibility for the team's next wave of talent.

For the Red Wings, the trade doesn't change much, as Karlsson would remain in the Metropolitan Division.

The only downside is that the Wings have been rumored to be interested in Karlsson.

Although many recent reports stated that such a deal would be surprising to see, seeing him traded to another team would likely confirm fans will never get a chance to see him in a Wings jersey.

Karlsson, 35, scored 56 and 53 points in his past two seasons with the Penguins.

Three years ago, he had a 101-point season, showing he could still produce impressive numbers in the NHL.

If the Wings end up making the playoffs in a wildcard spot, they could face the Hurricanes and Karlsson in the first round, or the Conference Finals, if both teams make it to the third round.