Last season, the Detroit Red Wings appeared to be on the brink of making the playoffs for the first time since 2016. However, they fell short of that goal. Adding to their woes, reports suggest that their captain, Dylan Larkin, is seeking to leave the team.
According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, 29-year-old Larkin has asked for a trade. Reasons include the team’s repeated playoff absences and a reportedly strained relationship with Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman. The report cites multiple sources, but none of the involved parties — Larkin, his agent, or Yzerman — have issued a comment.
Larkin, drafted 15th overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft by the Red Wings, has accumulated 643 points over 808 games. He serves as a top-line center with a current salary cap hit of $8.7 million, as noted by Puck Pedia. Larkin’s contract extends until 2031, which likely makes him a coveted asset for various teams across the league.
The center has showcased strong performance with Team USA as well. Last year, he participated in the Four Nations Face-off, and he helped secure a gold medal for the US men’s hockey team at the Olympics.
Importantly, Larkin holds a full no-trade clause for the next two seasons. Any potential trade will require his approval. Although a trade is not ideal for the Red Wings, a timely decision could provide significant returns in exchange for Larkin. This situation might offer the team an opportunity to recalibrate and eventually secure a playoff spot.
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