The San Jose Sharks recently added goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood to their roster, acquiring him from the New Jersey Devils. However, this move hasn't changed their plans regarding their star defenseman, Erik Karlsson. The Sharks' front office is actively exploring trade options for the Norris Trophy winner, aiming to send him to a contending team.

General Manager Mike Grier acknowledged Karlsson's desire to compete for the Stanley Cup, a goal that doesn't align with the Sharks' current rebuilding phase. Grier has been in discussions with other teams about Karlsson since before the last trade deadline, but the complexities of such a trade are significant. Karlsson, at 33, carries a substantial contract with four seasons remaining and an $11.5 million cap hit, the fifth-highest in the league.

This trade won't be a simple salary dump like some others seen recently in the NHL. Grier has stated he won't retain salary to facilitate a move, unlike the Flyers' approach with Kevin Hayes' trade to St. Louis. He recognizes Karlsson's value, describing him as a "special player" and a potential Hall of Famer who significantly impacts a team's offensive capabilities.

Following his third Norris Trophy win, Karlsson reiterated his ambition to play for a Stanley Cup contender. He expressed satisfaction with his performance but believes he has more to offer. If traded, Karlsson would be the first reigning Norris Trophy winner to be moved since Doug Harvey in 1961. His impressive statistics from last season – 25 goals and 76 assists, totaling over 100 points – underscore his offensive prowess, a feat not achieved by a defenseman since Brian Leetch in 1991-92.

The Blackwood acquisition, for which the Sharks traded a sixth-round pick, fills a need in the net. Blackwood's departure from New Jersey was prompted by the emergence of Vitek Vanecek and Akira Schmid, who played key roles in the Devils' playoff run. This move signals the Sharks' ongoing efforts to reshape their roster, even as they navigate the complexities of a potential Karlsson trade.