Dylan Larkin Trade Imminent as Detroit Prepares for Blockbuster Deal
Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin could be traded within the next seven to 10 days, according to information reported by ESPN analyst John Buccigross. The impending transaction follows Larkin’s public trade request made on June 4, 2026, setting up a major roster shift for a franchise currently sitting at 3-3-2 in the Atlantic Division.
Larkin trade looms amid front office changes
Speaking on an Oct. 16, 2026, episode of the Frankly Hockey podcast alongside Frank Seravalli, Buccigross stated that a trade involving the disgruntled star is imminent. Larkin has spent his entire career in Detroit after being selected 15th overall in the 2014 NHL Draft, eventually succeeding Henrik Zetterberg as captain in January 2021.
The organization changed significantly following Larkin's trade request, as the Red Wings parted ways with longtime general manager Steve Yzerman and named Shawn Horcoff as interim general manager on Sept. 15, 2026. Horcoff has maintained that he has no intention of starting a full rebuild, indicating any return for Larkin must feature roster-ready talent rather than solely draft picks and prospects.
Larkin controls destination through no-trade clause
Because Larkin carries a full no-trade clause on his contract—which runs through the 2030-31 season at an $8.7 million average annual value—he holds considerable control over his destination.
Clubs frequently linked to his preferred list include the Minnesota Wild, Colorado Avalanche, Vegas Golden Knights, Florida Panthers, Washington Capitals, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Dallas Stars. The Montreal Canadiens have also been highlighted by the Toronto Sun as a potential destination for Dylan Larkin.
Edvinsson faces deadline amid contract dispute
Beyond the Larkin situation, the Red Wings face a strict Dec. 1 deadline regarding restricted free agent defenseman Simon Edvinsson. The 23-year-old blueliner has missed the start of the season due to a contract dispute, though Horcoff stated he has “zero interest” in trading the top-pair defender. Buccigross estimated on Frankly Hockey that a long-term extension could land near a $10 million AAV.
Meanwhile, Detroit recently locked up forward Alex DeBrincat to a seven-year, $91 million extension. However, analyst Frank Seravalli questioned the sequencing of these moves, arguing that sorting out Edvinsson and the Larkin trade should have taken precedence before committing long-term capital to a roster still outside playoff contention.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Detroit Red Wings Roster Decisions
When did Dylan Larkin request a trade from the Detroit Red Wings?
Larkin’s trade request became public knowledge on June 4, 2026, following the team’s failure to qualify for the postseason.
What is the deadline for Simon Edvinsson to sign an NHL deal?
Because Edvinsson is a restricted free agent, the Red Wings must sign him or trade him before Dec. 1 to keep him eligible to play in the NHL during the 2026-27 season.
Keep reading