Dylan Larkin Trade Timeline Points to an Imminent Blockbuster Deal
Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin could be traded within seven to ten days, according to information shared by ESPN analyst John Buccigross on an Oct. 16 episode of the Frankly Hockey podcast hosted by Frank Seravalli, freep.com reported. Larkin, a Waterford, Michigan native drafted 15th overall in the 2014 NHL Draft, has spent his entire NHL career with the Red Wings and recorded 67 points in 74 games last season.
Larkin’s trade request became public knowledge on June 4, following a stretch that saw the franchise miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the 10th consecutive year. In response to the growing roster friction, the organization parted ways with longtime general manager Steve Yzerman and named Shawn Horcoff interim general manager on Sept. 15. Horcoff has stated he has no intention of starting a rebuild, signaling that any return for Larkin must feature an active player of similar caliber rather than purely draft picks and prospects.
High Asking Price and Potential Destinations
TSN analyst Darren Dreger reported that the Red Wings are seeking a package of three or four pieces in exchange for Larkin, including two high-quality prospects, an active top-nine forward, and a first-round draft pick. Because Larkin carries an $8.7 million average annual value through the 2030-31 season alongside a full no-trade clause, he holds significant leverage over his next destination.
Statements from Dylan Larkin and the Detroit Red Wings. pic.twitter.com/P2sZjqp9Iz
Among the teams linked to his preferred list are the Vegas Golden Knights, Minnesota Wild, Florida Panthers, Colorado Avalanche, Washington Capitals, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Dallas Stars. The Minnesota Wild and Montréal Canadiens have also expressed considerable interest in acquiring the veteran center. Industry analysts note that acquiring Larkin could immediately elevate a club like Montréal into Stanley Cup contention.
Contract Stalemate Surrounds Simon Edvinsson
While the franchise addresses the Larkin situation, interim general manager Shawn Horcoff faces another deadline with restricted free agent defenseman Simon Edvinsson. Edvinsson, 23, remains unsigned and has spent time training away from Detroit, missing the start of the regular season. Because he is a restricted free agent, the Red Wings must sign him or trade him before Dec. 1 to keep him eligible for NHL play this season.
Horcoff stated on Wednesday that he has zero interest in trading the young defenseman, emphasizing that the team is working diligently to reach an agreement. Buccigross estimated on Frankly Hockey that a fair extension for Edvinsson could reach a seven-year deal with a $10 million average annual value, which would surpass teammate Moritz Seider’s $8.55 million AAV.
Roster Sequencing Generates Analyst Debate
The Red Wings recently signed forward Alex DeBrincat to a seven-year, $91 million extension, locking up the forward through his late twenties. While many analysts praised the retention of DeBrincat, Frank Seravalli discussed the sequencing of Detroit’s offseason moves on the Frankly Hockey podcast. Seravalli argued that addressing DeBrincat’s massive contract before resolving the trade status of Larkin and the contract status of Edvinsson leaves the team vulnerable if it cannot compete immediately.
The Red Wings currently hold a 3-3-2 record through eight games, tying them for last place in the Atlantic Division with eight points. With the season underway, interim general manager Shawn Horcoff must balance immediate roster demands against long-term asset management.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Detroit Red Wings Roster Moves
What compensation are the Red Wings seeking for Dylan Larkin?
The Red Wings want a package consisting of three or four assets, which includes two high-quality prospects, an active top-nine NHL forward, and a first-round draft pick.
When is the deadline for Simon Edvinsson to sign an NHL contract?
Because Simon Edvinsson is a restricted free agent, the Red Wings must trade him or sign him to a new deal before Dec. 1 to keep him eligible to play in the NHL during the current season.
Why was Dylan Larkin stripped of his captaincy?
The Red Wings stripped Larkin of his captaincy before the start of the season following his public trade request submitted after the team missed the playoffs.
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