SouthernWorldwide.com – Detroit Red Wings captain and Detroit-area native Dylan Larkin has reportedly informed the team of his desire for a trade.
This news comes as the Red Wings missed out on a playoff spot last season, a streak that continues since 2016.
The 29-year-old center’s alleged trade request was first reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, who cited multiple sources.
Friedman’s report suggests that Larkin’s decision stems from the team’s consistent failure to reach the postseason and a strained relationship with Red Wings General Manager and franchise legend Steve Yzerman.
As of the report, neither Larkin, his agent, nor Yzerman have officially commented on the trade request.
Larkin was selected by the Red Wings as the 15th overall pick in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
He has since accumulated 643 points in 808 games played for the team.
Larkin is considered a top-line center with a significant cap hit of $8.7 million.
He is under contract and will not become an unrestricted free agent until 2031.
His contract status and performance make him a potentially valuable trade asset for many NHL teams.
Larkin has also recently demonstrated strong performance on the international stage.
He was a member of the Four Nations Face-off team and was part of the U.S. Men’s Olympic team that won a gold medal in 2026.
Crucially, Larkin possesses a full no-trade clause for the upcoming two seasons.
This clause means he must approve any trade the Red Wings might negotiate for him during that period.
While this situation presents a challenge for the Red Wings organization, it could also offer a potential upside.
A trade, if executed effectively, could allow the team to acquire significant assets in return for their captain.
The sooner a trade is finalized, the more leverage the Red Wings might have in negotiations, as Larkin is expected to command a substantial return.
Although this situation is not ideal, it might represent the necessary reset the team needs to rebuild and aim for a return to the postseason.
