The NHL draft and free-agent frenzy may be in the rear-view mirror, but the rumors surrounding a potential Erik Karlsson trade appear to be heating up.

On Monday, it was reported that the Ottawa Senators had given permission to interested clubs to discuss a potential contract extension with Karlsson. Signs certainly point to a potential departure from Ottawa, but if former Sens captain Daniel Alfredsson has his way, Karlsson will stick around.

"I think it's a difficult situation for everybody," Alfredsson said, according to TSN's Brent Wallace. "No question he is a generational talent and the best player to ever wear the Senators jersey. Then we'll see what happens. I know for me personally I hope he stays."

Related: Senators offer extension to Karlsson

As for if Alfredsson thinks Karlsson will be moved, he has no idea.

"To be honest I don't know what to think at this moment," Alfredsson said. "You know, what could happen? I heard at the deadline it was close. I heard after that it was close. I'm sure he'll call me if something happens."

Karlsson - who's set to be an unrestricted free agent next summer - is coming off a tough season with the Senators that saw the club finish with the second-worst record in the league, involved off-ice drama surrounding his family and former Senator Mike Hoffman, and seemingly featured never-ending rumors regarding the stability of the franchise in Ottawa with regards to owner Eugene Melnyk.

Still, the two-time Norris Trophy winner managed 62 points in 71 games and remains one of the elite defensemen in the NHL.

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