What happened: Dylan Larkin has emerged as the top target on the NHL trade market following reports of a formal trade request from the Detroit Red Wings. The Athletic updated its offseason trade board to reflect the captain's availability after a decade-long tenure in Detroit marked by frustration over the team's direction.
Why it matters: Larkin reportedly holds a full no-trade clause and has provided a list of three preferred destinations: the Minnesota Wild, Florida Panthers, and Vegas Golden Knights. The Red Wings are weighing whether to move their franchise center before the 2026 NHL Draft or hold out for a wider market.
By the numbers: Larkin is entering the fourth year of an eight-year contract with an $8.7 million cap hit. Detroit has missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 10 of his 11 seasons with the franchise, including the 2025-26 campaign.
What to watch: The NHL trade market is expected to heat up ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft in late June, which serves as a natural deadline for a major move.