What happened: Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has ascended to the top spot on The Athletic's NHL trade board following his recent request for a change of scenery. Veteran forward Blake Coleman remains the only member of the Calgary Flames on the list as the team continues its roster transition.
Why it matters: Larkin's availability has drastically shifted the offseason market, providing a rare opportunity for contenders to acquire an elite center in his prime. For the Calgary Flames, keeping Coleman on the board underscores GM Craig Conroy's intent to maximize value for veterans before the 2026 NHL Draft.
By the numbers: Dylan Larkin tallied 78 points during the 2025-26 season as Detroit's playoff drought reached 10 years. Blake Coleman, 34, enters the final year of his deal with a $4.9 million AAV and is currently ranked as a top-10 trade target.
What to watch: Expect trade discussions to intensify as the draft approaches on June 26, with Minnesota and Florida rumored as potential landing spots for Larkin.