'Actions Must Match Ambitions': Penguins' Kyle Dubas Has Strong Words For Erik Karlsson

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas didn’t hold back in his season-ending media availability, delivering pointed remarks about Erik Karlsson’s inconsistent play and what it means for the team’s future. 

After another disappointing year that saw the Penguins miss the playoffs for a third straight season, Dubas made it clear that the star defenseman needs to be more accountable. “My push to him would be that his actions have to match his ambitions,” Dubas said. “That’s in consistency, preparation, and training, like every other player on the team.”

Karlsson, who registered 53 points and a minus-24 rating in 82 games, failed to live up to the expectations that followed him after his Norris Trophy-winning campaign in San Jose. 

While his talent was evident at times—most notably during the 4 Nations Face-Off with Team Sweden—his elevated play rarely translated into success with the Penguins. 

Dubas acknowledged Karlsson’s skill but criticized the lack of sustained impact, noting, “He’s shown throughout the year that he has another level to him... there were moments of great play with too many inconsistencies.”

With two years remaining on Karlsson’s $11.5 million contract (San Jose retains $1.5 million), his future in Pittsburgh appears uncertain. 

Dubas did not suggest a trade was imminent, but he emphasized the need for change and improvement on the blue line. 

While Karlsson has not formally requested a trade, his frustration with the team’s direction was evident, and Dubas’s remarks signal that the veteran defenseman will need to prove he can be part of the solution if he’s to remain in black and gold.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
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