On June 4, Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin surprised the hockey world by submitting a trade request to general manager Steve Yzerman. The 29-year-old center is signed through 2030-31 with an annual cap hit of $8.7 million and has a full no-trade clause.
The Larkin camp and Red Wings management have been silent about the matter. Nevertheless, his request is likely driven by his frustration at having only made the playoffs once in his 11 seasons in Detroit. His no-trade clause gives him full control over where he can be dealt.
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic speculated that Larkin could draw interest from between 12 and 15 teams. However, Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press reported the Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, and the Florida Panthers were the only clubs on his list of preferred trade destinations.
LeBrun and St. James suggested that Larkin could be asked to expand his list if Yzerman can’t get a favorable trade from those three teams. LeBrun also believes it would be a mistake to underestimate Yzerman’s ability to get a solid return, adding that he won’t be forced into making a bad deal.
The Wild, Golden Knights, or Panthers could meet Yzerman’s asking price for Larkin. If they don’t, the Wings GM could insist on Larkin expanding his list. With his captain still under a long-term contract, Yzerman can afford to wait for the best return, even if this drama stretches into next season.
Salary cap info and line combination via PuckPedia.