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Amid ongoing speculation surrounding some of the Pittsburgh Penguins stars, the franchise would be willing to trade Erik Karlsson at the deadline if they could meet three critical conditions, according to league sources quoted by The Athletic’s Josh Yohe.

The Pittsburgh Penguins’ playoff hopes have been dashed. A few bad losses in the last three games have effectively taken away hope for another furious charge to the end.

As the Penguins continue to fade away in the Eastern Conference, general manager Kyle Dubas could be open to trading Erik Karlsson.

Here are the obstacles to trading Karlsson: • He has a no-movement clause. Though many assume he would be willing to move on if asked, he still has the power here. The team hasn’t played well during his time in Pittsburgh, but he seems to genuinely like playing for the Penguins.

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson's performance for Sweden in the 4 Nations Face-Off prompted some observers to suggest rival clubs might look at him more closely in the NHL trade market.

Erik Karlsson may be 34 years old and past his truly elite days, but that doesn't mean teams shouldn't line up for his services following a report that stated the Pittsburgh Penguins would trade him in a "heartbeat.

While it will be tough to do at the NHL Trade Deadline, it does not mean GM Kyle Dubas is not open to moving the defenseman. Pittsburgh may not recoup the assets they gave up for him, but Karlsson still has value, especially paired with the right player.

Erik Karlsson is in his second season with the Penguins. How is it going? Let’s say he, uh… In fact, let’s say we expected more from him in Pittsburgh when Kyle Dubas went to get him from San Jose.

Penguins insider Josh Yohe of The Athletic reports that a team source tells him that Dubas could trade Karlsson "in a heartbeat." The problem though, of course, is Karlsson's $10 million annual cap hit. The 34 year old Karlsson also has a full no-trade clause in his contract and can exercise full control on his future.