The NHL trade market is heating up as the Detroit Red Wings’ captain Dylan Larkin has formally requested a move, a development that could reshape several teams’ rosters heading into the next season.
Larkin, who still has five years remaining on his deal with an average annual value of $8.7 million, is looking for a fresh start, and his availability has sparked a flurry of speculation across the league.
Potential Destinations
Philadelphia Flyers coach Kevin Kurz has been floated as a front‑runner, with the team eyeing a first‑line center to complement their young talent, though Detroit is said to be holding out for a top‑two center in return.
Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, however, doubts the Columbus Blue Jackets’ chances, suggesting Larkin may prefer to join an upper‑echelon club that can promise a deeper playoff run.
Patrick Present of the Anaheim Ducks believes the club could craft an enticing offer, potentially packaging young center Mason McTavish, a second‑tier prospect and a first‑round draft pick to make a compelling case.
Meanwhile, in Montreal, goaltender Samuel Montembeault’s inconsistent season has not erased his market value, and insider Renaud Lavoie predicts the Canadiens could flip forward Kirby Dach for a modest second or third‑round pick.
On the East Coast, the Washington Capitals are dealing with the long‑term absence of defenseman Rasmus Sandin, who is expected to miss six to nine months after ACL surgery, prompting GM Chris Patrick to explore options to shore up the blue line.
What This Means for Detroit
The Red Wings now face a decision: retain a core piece that could anchor a resurgence, or leverage his contract and talent to acquire assets that might accelerate a rebuild. With the market still fluid, the coming weeks will likely determine whether Detroit becomes a seller or a buyer in the upcoming trade deadline.