Penguins’ GM Sends Clear Message to Erik Karlsson on Monday

Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas didn't mince words on Monday when asked about Erik Karlsson's present and future, issuing a pointed critique of the veteran defenseman.

In Dubas' eyes, Karlsson was inconsistent during last season, his second in Pittsburgh, and the general manager sounded off, demanding more from the former Norris Trophy winner.

"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."

Karlsson, 34, has two years remaining on his eight-year, $92 million contract and is coming off scoring 53 points in a full 82-game season.

Dubas, on Karlsson: "Erik is and will forever be a polarizing figure. 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…

After back-to-back missed playoffs with the superstar blueliner in tow and three years overall without postseason hockey in Pittsburgh, Dubas made clear that Karlsson must elevate his level.

"He showed throughout the year he has another level to him," Dubas said. "At times playing for us, certainly playing for Sweden at the Four Nations Face-Off, he was a player that you would watch and say, ‘This guy can help any team not only contend, but probably win.'

"But it's emblematic of the rest of the group as well."

Karlsson spoke on Friday and left the door open to a possible trade without publicly requesting one, as he did when he forced his way out of San Jose.

"I've been in this situation before and been through this before," Karlsson said. "I realize the magnitude of it. At the end of the day, it's a business. Whatever happens is going to happen."

Dubas appeared unsettled by those comments and responded with direct expectations, hinting at Karlsson's future being linked to the Penguins at least for the time being.