- Editor's note: Sheng Peng will be a regular contributor to NBC Sports California's Sharks coverage for the 2021-22 season. You can read more of his coverage on San Jose Hockey Now, listen to him on the San Jose Hockey Now Podcast, and follow him on Twitter at @Sheng_Peng.
Could Erik Karlsson or Brent Burns be on the trade block?
On Saturday, Elliotte Friedman reported on Sportsnet that the Sharks had “preliminary trade talks” centered around Karlsson early in the season. Also, they’re open to breaking up the Karlsson-Burns defensive duo if the right offer comes along.
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“It does look like there were some preliminary, very preliminary, trade talks this year involving defenseman Erik Karlsson and a couple of teams,” Friedman said. “I don’t necessarily think that’s going to go anywhere.”
RELATED: Where Sharks' odds at landing No. 1 draft pick stand
After back-to-back substandard seasons, Karlsson’s quick start to the 2021-22 campaign -- 26 points in 33 games -- reminded the hockey world that he’s still a phenomenal talent. But he’s also 31 years old, has had trouble staying healthy over the last half decade and has five seasons left on an eight-year, $92 million dollar agreement signed in June 2019.