Report: Karlsson trade talks heating up

Trade talks involving Ottawa Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson appear to be intensifying.

Teams interested in the Senators' captain have "stepped up of late and talks are moving," according to TSN's Darren Dreger.

Rumors regarding a potential trade involving Karlsson had gone quiet ever since reports in early July that the Dallas Stars were front-runners to land the two-time Norris Trophy winner. Among the other teams linked to Karlsson at the time were the Tampa Bay Lightning and Vegas Golden Knights.

It also appears as though another club has since entered the running for Karlsson, as Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet alluded to the Vancouver Canucks having interest.

There is a sense today that Erik Karlsson trade talks have picked up in the last few days. Most likely destinations appear to be Western Conference. There is also a belief VAN has stepped in to see if it is a match.

- Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) August 22, 2018

Karlsson is heading into the final year of a seven-year, $45.5-million contract, and while the Senators reportedly offered him a contract extension worth $10 million annually, there's been no indication he intends to stay in Ottawa.

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