Trade between Erik Carlson and William Nylander coming?

Rumors swirl around San Jose Sharks linebacker Erik Carlson and, most recently, Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander.

Toronto journalist Howard Berger said on Wednesday that the former player’s name was mentioned in a proposed deal that would allow the Queen City club to get their hands on the recent James Norris Cup winner.

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It’s no secret that Carlson wants to make a fresh start with a team that aspires to the highest honors and the Sharks are willing to give him just that.

As for Nylander, the 27-year-old Swede will sign a six-year, $6 million annual deal in 2023-24. It appears that negotiations over a contract extension will stall with the Leafs’ new management.

The winger is coming off his best statistical season, scoring 40 goals and 47 assists for 87 points in 82 games.

Carlson also set a new personal high in 2022-23. The 33-year-old veteran scored 25 times and made 76 assists for 101 points in 82 games. The fullback has a contract worth $11.5 million per year and is valid through the end of the 2026-2027 campaign.