Penguins GM Kyle Dubas on Erik Karlsson: ‘His actions have to match his ambitions’

At the conclusion of another disappointing season, the Pittsburgh Penguins are looking for answers to end their recent trend of playoff absences.

During his media availability on Monday, general manager Kyle Dubas was asked about defenseman Erik Karlsson, the veteran who had some significant struggles throughout the 2024-25 season which hindered the Penguins. Dubas admitted that Karlsson is a great player, when he wants to be.

“Erik is and will forever be a polarizing figure,” Dubas said. “My view would be we expect him to be one of the people who pulls us from where we’re at into contention. I had a long meeting with him… my push would be his actions have to match his ambitions. He showed throughout the year he has another level to him.”

Dubas noted how well Karlsson played for Team Sweden at the 4 Nations Face-Off. The Norris Trophy-winner proved he can still be one of the top defensemen in the NHL. The problem was getting to him to compete at that level on a more frequent basis.

“He had moments of great play with too many inconsistencies. We have to push him to get here.”

Karlsson ended up leading all Penguins defenders with 11 goals and 42 assists for 53 points this season, placing him fourth in overall scoring. The 34-year-old nearly won the team’s “green jacket” as his plus/minus of -24 was tied for the second-worst on the team. Center Noel Acciari “led” the Penguins with a -25 rating this season.

Unfortunately for the Pens, Karlsson is set to be in town for a couple more seasons, barring any potential deal. The Swede has two more years left on his eight-year contract that he signed with the San Jose Sharks in June 2019. The deal has an AAV of $11.5 million with a full no-move clause.