What happened: Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin, who requested a trade out of Detroit earlier this month, now appears to favor the Dallas Stars as his next home, according to NHL insider Nick Kypreos. Dallas is run by former Red Wings assistant general manager Jim Nill, a familiar tie for the disgruntled center. The Stars were not on Larkin's original short list, which reportedly consisted of the Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights and Minnesota Wild.

Why it matters: Larkin carries a full no-trade clause and multiple years left on his deal, giving him real say over any destination while general manager Steve Yzerman holds the power to decide whether a trade happens at all. Yzerman is said to want Larkin to broaden his list and will not move him if he feels squeezed. The push gained urgency as rival contenders reshape their cores, including Florida adding Brady Tkachuk from Ottawa.

What to watch: Watch whether Larkin expands his approved list and whether Yzerman attaches a Robertson component before the June 30 contract deadline.