Erik Karlsson trade addressed by team reporter: What it means for the Detroit Red Wings

The Pittsburgh Penguins are still looking at their trade options entering the season. Although multiple analysts believe the team will keep the veteran core together to start the season and make moves if things don't go well on the ice, rumors are still looming.

The Athletic's reporter covering the Pittsburgh Penguins, Josh Yohe, confirmed in a recent intervention that we could see Erik Karlsson being traded in spite of his heavy contract.

On The Fan Hockey Show, Yohe revealed that Dubas is interested in parting ways with the veteran defenseman, and that it wouldn't cost that much to get him.

He also stated that sources told him teams will be interested if he retains a part of his salary:

The Red Wings don't necessarily need to add another veteran defenseman with a high salary to the team. But adding a leader who can score and help the younger guys develop could be enticing for Yzerman.

Karlsson only has two years left on his contract. If the Pens don't mind retaining salary and the cost to acquire him isn't high, the option of seeing him joining the Wings could be back on the table for now.

He would be a massive upgrade from Albert Johansson on the second pair with Simon Edvinsson, behind Moritz Seider, and also from Erik Gustafsson on the power play.

Last season, the 35-year-old right-handed defenseman tallied 11 goals and 42 assists with the Penguins. Although he doesn't have the same impact he had earlier in his career, he can still bring a lot to a team, especially a team on the verge of breaking out like the Detroit Red Wings.