NHLTR Mock Trade: Sharks Deal Erik Karlsson to the Red Wings

Welcome to NHLTR mock trade series where we will showcase a potential 2023 offseason trade. From minor moves to major transactions, everything will be covered as we try to predict how the chips may fall this summer across the NHL.

For today's mock trade we head to Motown to check in on the Detroit Red Wings. A team that knows a lot about Norris-trophy winning defenseman who hail from Sweden. Turns out the San Jose Sharks do as well and these two teams could be swinging a big deal this summer.

Mock Trade: Sharks trade Erik Karlsson (retaining 50% salary) to the Red Wings for 2023 first-round pick (17th overall), 2023 second-round pick and prospect LD Albert Johansson

Sharks Perspective: If the Sharks are willing to eat 50% of his $11.5 million salary for the next four seasons, they will land themselves a loaded trade package. This deal with the Wings gives them three valuable assets for the future which includes a young defenseman who was a former second-round pick. Everything is up to Karlsson who holds a full no-move clause, however all Steve Yzerman needs to do is show off some Nicklas Lidstrom tapes and things should get moving.

Red Wings Perspective: We've seen savvy moves from Yzerman before and this one would be right up there. Yes, Karlsson is 33 years old, however he's in amazing shape, skates like the wind and with his style of play, should be able to perform at a high level for the next four seasons. The Wings are getting closer to becoming a serious threat in the Eastern Conference and this move is a giant step forward in the process. Having Mo Seider and Karlsson on the right side gives Detroit the best 1-2 combo in the league.