The best impending free-agent defenseman is not hitting the market.
Multiple reports have Erik Karlsson staying in San Jose, with TSN's Pierre LeBrun tweeting that an eight-year contract extension worth north of $11 million per season is done.
As a result of Karlsson re-signing with San Jose, the Senators will receive a second-round pick in 2021 from the Sharks
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) June 17, 2019
The 2018-19 season was Karlsson's first in the Bay Area after a September trade from Ottawa, and the Swede finished with three goals and 45 points in 53 games. He added two goals and 16 points during San Jose's run to the conference finals.
Karlsson earned $6.5 million against the salary cap last season, the final year on his deal. He remains one of the league's top puck-moving defensemen and would have been in high demand in free agency, which opens July 1.
The new deal will make Karlsson one of the highest-paid players in the NHL, trailing only superstars Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews, according to Cap Friendly.
Doughty signed for 13.8 per cent of cap. If ceiling does hit the projected $83 — Karlsson comes in around $11.45.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 17, 2019
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