Canadiens Called About Dylan Larkin Trade, Are They Willing to Pay The Price?

Trade speculation surrounding Dylan Larkin is beginning to pick up steam, and the Montreal Canadiens are once again being linked to the Detroit Red Wings captain following reports that he has requested a move.

As cited by Nick Lariviere, according to co-host of the Sick Podcast: The Eye Test show’s Jimmy Murphy, Montreal had already inquired about Larkin’s availability. With his situation now evolving, the expectation is that they could revisit those talks. On paper, Larkin fits a clear need as a second-line center and remains one of the most productive options potentially available on the market. The question becomes what the Canadiens are willing to give up to acquire Larkin.

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The 29-year-old has been a consistent offensive contributor, regularly producing around 30 goals and 70 points while playing a reliable two-way game. He is also signed long-term at a manageable cap hit (5 years, $8.7 million per season), which adds to his appeal. Reports are that the Canadiens were willing to offer four pieces for Matthew Knies. The assumption here is that they might be willing to do the same for Larkin.

That package revolved around Alexander Zharovsky, two first-round picks, and a prospect.

However, there are concerns. Larkin is approaching 30, and his speed-driven style could decline over time, raising questions about how well he fits Montreal’s longer competitive window. There are also leadership questions, given that he’s not going to walk away from the Red Wings without some fans suggesting part of Detroit’s struggles have been because Larkin didn’t step up. However, in Montreal, he won’t have to be the leader, and the team is much deeper offensively.

Ultimately, Larkin could address an immediate need by playing behind Nick Suzuki and rounding out the Canadiens’ top six. Whether a deal makes sense for Montreal may come down to price — and whether the team is willing to sacrifice key pieces of its future. Nick Lariviere writes, “…if the Habs can get away with making that deal without touching their big three prospects instead having maybe a Bryce Pickford and Owen Beck, then he may be the perfect fit for the Habs’ second-line centre for the next 3 seasons until [Michael] Hage takes over.”

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