General manager Kyle Dubas made a big move bringing in defenseman Erik Karlsson to help the aging Penguins make a deep playoff push. However, almost two-thirds through the season, the Penguins are struggling and Karlsson has not met expectations. The team faces a possible crossroads going forward with buyer's remorse looming.
The team made a three-team trade acquiring Karlsson in exchange for several players, including a 2024 first-round pick. Despite Karlsson's individual performance, the team's power play has struggled, ranking 30th in the NHL. With an uncertain future for Karlsson and pending decisions on other key players, the Penguins are in a tough spot and may need to make some difficult choices.