Dylan Larkin, the 29-year-old Michigan native and Red Wings captain, submitted a trade request on June 4, listing the Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild, and Vegas Golden Knight for which he would waive his no-movement clause. Locked into a $69.6 million deal through 2030-31, Larkin purports to prioritize wins after Detroit’s 10th straight playoff miss. GM Steve Yzerman holds leverage with five years left on the contract, while fans debate the short list and what blockbuster package might sway a deal.
My personal opinion is that Larkin always has been out of position. He has never been a #1 center who can carry a team to new heights. With his skating ability, he is the perfect complimentary player who can neutralize opposing forwards with his speed, and he possesses the skill to chip in offensively. Obviously, Larkin sees things the same way, as each of the teams he has listed already have established top pivots not subject to being replaced.