“Team Everyone’s Talking About” Emerges in Dylan Larkin Trade Buzz

Trade speculation around Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin exploded on Thursday when NHL insider Elliotte Friedman broke the news that the superstar center requested a trade. Ready to leave the only NHL team he’s ever known, the Michigan-born Larkin is tired of almost getting in, and it is believed his tasting victory at the 4 Nations and the Olympics has him craving a Stanley Cup.

On the most recent 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman mentioned a few possible landing spots, but one team has quickly separated itself as the focal point of league-wide chatter: the Minnesota Wild.

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Speaking about Larkin’s reported trade request, Friedman outlined a growing list of interested teams, but emphasized that “Minnesota was the one team everyone’s talking about,” noting the situation “has the Wild written all over it.”

The interest comes as Larkin, nearing 30, appears to be prioritizing winning after tasting success on the international stage. Given that the Wild are desperate to get better and taking big swings (like acquiring Quinn Hughes), that mindset could make Larkin one of the most intriguing names on the market this offseason.

Who Else Is Friedman Linking to Larkin?

While Minnesota headlines the conversation, several other contenders are believed to be monitoring the situation closely. Friedman pointed to teams like the Dallas Stars and Tampa Bay Lightning as potential fits, both offering the kind of competitive environments Larkin may be seeking. The New Jersey Devils were also mentioned as a logical landing spot, given that they’re close, but need a piece or two to get over the hump.

However, not every team aligns with Larkin’s apparent desire to win now. Rebuilding clubs like the Chicago Blackhawks or San Jose Sharks could show interest, but questions remain about whether Larkin would be willing to waive his no-trade clause to join a team still years away from contention. Friedman is also unsure whether Larkin would be interested in going to Canada.

His no-trade clause gives Larkin significant control over the process, ensuring any deal will ultimately come down to fit as much as return. If he’s got two or three teams on his mind, the Red Wings will be forced to try and make something work. At the same time, Friedman acknowledged that GM Steve Yzerman is not the kind of person you bully or lowball. He won’t be backed into a forced trade.

Friedman noted that Yzerman “won’t be backed into a corner,” and he wonders if the Red Wings could pursue NHL-ready talent to remain competitive or opt for younger assets and futures, potentially extending their timeline. The Wild have a number of prospects and younger players who are close.

As the situation develops, Minnesota continues to stand out as the team most closely tied to Larkin. Whether that buzz turns into a concrete deal remains to be seen.

Next: Report: Canadiens and Maple Leafs Agreed to Matthew Knies Trade