Detroit Red Wings
Dylan Larkin Won’t Play Another Game for Detroit: Ranking Teams Most Likely to Land Him
With Dylan Larkin’s Detroit career over, the race is on. Here’s a look at teams likely to land the star center and what a trade could cost.
Up until now, Dylan Larkin has continued reporting to and playing for the Detroit Red Wings despite his ongoing trade request. In fact, the veteran center has remained productive, scoring some timely goals, including a game-tying marker late in his most recent appearance.
Through 10 games this season, Larkin has recorded two goals and six points while averaging 21:41 per night, more than two minutes above his career average. But that chapter now appears to be over.
It has been reported that Larkin will not play another game for the Red Wings while trade discussions continue, effectively bringing his Detroit tenure to an end. The only question now is where one of the NHL’s top two-way centers is headed next.
Larkin’s Trade Options
Larkin’s original list of preferred destinations started out small but has steadily expanded. According to reports, it now includes the following 10 teams:
- Carolina Hurricanes
- Colorado Avalanche
- Dallas Stars
- Florida Panthers
- Minnesota Wild
- New Jersey Devils
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- Utah Mammoth
- Vegas Golden Knights
- Washington Capitals
Most of the teams on Larkin’s list are legitimate Stanley Cup contenders, which isn’t surprising for a player looking to maximize his chances of winning. While cap space could complicate negotiations for several clubs, every team listed would have interest in adding a player of Larkin’s caliber.
The bigger question is which organizations are willing to meet Detroit’s asking price.
Some destinations stand out more than others.
Minnesota Wild
The Wild have been connected to Larkin almost since the moment rumors surfaced that he wanted out of Detroit. General manager Bill Guerin has never been afraid to swing big, and Minnesota has a clear need down the middle. Joel Eriksson Ek remains their top center, but beyond him there are still questions.
Danila Yurov has shown tremendous promise and looks capable of becoming a core piece for the organization. At the same time, if Minnesota is serious about competing right now, Yurov could be exactly the type of asset Detroit would demand as part of a blockbuster deal.
The Wild have both the motivation and the pieces to make something happen. A package centered around Ryan Hartman, Yurov, and additional draft capital would likely grab Detroit’s attention while helping Minnesota address its biggest need.
New Jersey Devils
Few GMs have been more aggressive than Sunny Mehta, and his acquisition of Connor Hellebuyck proved he isn’t afraid to make franchise-altering moves.
The Devils already feature Jack Hughes and Luke Hughes as foundational pieces. Adding Larkin would further strengthen a roster built to contend immediately while also creating an even more attractive destination should Quinn Hughes become available in the future.
The biggest hurdle is cap space.
After acquiring Hellebuyck, New Jersey’s financial flexibility is limited. However, Timo Meier’s contract creates a potential framework for discussions. Meier makes just $100,000 more than Larkin and is the same age, making him one of the cleaner salary-matching options available.
If the Devils are willing to attach a high-end prospect such as Arseny Gritsyuk or another significant young asset, they could quickly emerge as one of the favorites in the Larkin sweepstakes.
Vegas Golden Knights
If there’s a star player available, the Golden Knights always seem to find their way into the conversation. Every year it looks impossible for Vegas to make another splash, and every year they somehow find a way.
The Golden Knights have reportedly explored moving Tomas Hertl, and his contract would instantly help solve the financial side of a Larkin deal. Adding Brett Howden to the package could further entice Detroit.
Howden elevated his game during Vegas’ playoff run last season, posting 18 points in 22 playoff games, and has continued producing this year. He’s exactly the type of versatile middle-six player rebuilding teams often target in major trades.
With prospects such as Trevor Connelly and Braeden Bowman continuing to develop, Vegas has enough pieces to put together a compelling offer if they choose to aggressively pursue Larkin.
Utah Mammoth
Utah might be the true dark horse in this race.
The Mammoth have more cap flexibility than most teams on Larkin’s list and ownership has shown a clear willingness to pursue major additions. They were aggressive in the Connor Hellebuyck discussions and could take a similar approach here.
Lawson Crouse could help balance the money, while Utah has the prospect and draft capital needed to sweeten an offer.
From a hockey standpoint, Larkin would fit beautifully. He would provide top-end center depth, leadership, and experience to a young team that’s clearly trying to accelerate its path toward contention. Don’t be surprised if Utah becomes much more involved as negotiations progress.
Wildcards
While the current focus remains on teams from Larkin’s approved list, a few clubs could become serious contenders if circumstances change.
The Montreal Canadiens continue searching for a true top-line center and have reportedly made a significant effort to sell Larkin on the idea of joining the organization. If Montreal were ever added to his list, there’s a strong argument they would become one of the most aggressive bidders immediately.
The St. Louis Blues are another team believed to be monitoring the situation closely. They aren’t viewed as a frontrunner today, but that could change quickly if Larkin broadens his list of acceptable destinations.
When Will Larkin Be Traded?
According to Frank Seravalli, pressure continues to build from Larkin’s camp to complete a deal. With the Red Wings now reportedly prepared to hold him out of the lineup to avoid any injury risk, all signs point toward a trade happening sooner rather than later.
Detroit’s challenge will be securing the type of return it wants.
The Red Wings are believed to be seeking a top-six forward, significant futures, and potentially additional roster pieces depending on salary considerations. Finding a true top-line center in return could prove difficult, which may ultimately force Detroit to prioritize the best overall package available.
What Shawn Horcoff decides is enough remains to be seen, but the Larkin saga appears to be entering its final chapter.
Next: Larkin Won’t Play for Red Wings, GM to Address Media About Trade
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