The Detroit Red Wings have watched their star center Dylan Larkin broaden his list of potential destinations, adding the Dallas Stars to a growing set of suitors. The move signals a heightened urgency on the part of the franchise to reshape its roster ahead of the upcoming season.
The Dallas Sticking Point
Detroit's initial overture centered on Wyatt Johnston, a young forward who the Stars promptly declined to part with. In a counter‑move, Dallas floated Jason Robertson, a proven scorer, but the Red Wings balked because the proposed contract lacks a guaranteed long‑term extension. Robertson's cap hit sits in the double‑digit millions, with recent estimates hovering around $15 million in average annual value.
Larkin's own contract commands an $8.7 million cap hit over the next five years, a figure that the Stars can absorb only if they manage to shed Robertson's salary. The team's depth at center, however, makes such a maneuver unlikely, as the organization already boasts a crowded depth chart.
Potential Landing Spots and Their Hurdles
Analysts have pointed to the Golden Knights and the Minnesota Wild as the most plausible destinations for Larkin. Both clubs are deep at center, which raises questions about the fit and the assets they could realistically offer. The Wild, in particular, lack the necessary cap flexibility and trade chips to make a compelling package.
Steve Yzerman, the Red Wings' president of hockey operations, has remained tight‑lipped, while insider Ansar Khan has noted that the market for Larkin remains fluid. The coming weeks will likely clarify whether a deal materializes or whether the star center will stay in Detroit.