Very few teams can afford Karlsson $11.5 salary and normally I would say stay away (33 years old, 4 more years remaining), but I am so tired of losing that I would be ecstatic if we get him.

Karlsson is an interesting discussion. However, with that NTC he's going to pick a destination where he can chase a Cup. I really don't think Detroit fits into that discussion. If he was interested, it becomes about how much salary San Jose might retain and what the cost would be to acquire him. If the asset cost is low (San Jose should see the cap relief as their biggest return) a trade might make some sense as Karlsson could be a nice bridge while some of the young D find their NHL legs. Karlsson's defensive deficiencies could be covered by pairing him with the right partner. However, Karlsson is going to have to settle for 2nd paring D behind Seider (although perhaps 1st PP). If the cost is anything more than a 1st (Boston's in 2024 or Detroit's #17 this year) plus maybe Zadina, the Wings really need to look elsewhere. I'd also want to see the assets going to SJ based on games played and playoff success. I honestly not too worried about the salary as it could probably work within the Wings structure for the next couple of years. Yzerman could also offer to trade Karlsson to a contender in the future since they could likely retain salary. If Karlsson's play doesn't drop off they could easily get back equivalent assets to what was used to acquire him.