Trade talks between the Detroit Red Wings and Minnesota Wild involving Dylan Larkin reportedly stalled after the two teams failed to find common ground. NHL analyst Kevin Allen said the sides were unable to agree on a return.
Writing about Larkin’s situation, Allen said the Red Wings were looking for a different type of return than what the Wild were prepared to offer.
“The Red Wings and Wild previously talked without finding common ground. The Red Wings aren’t enamored with the younger players the Wild are willing to give up.”
Allen also noted that Minnesota would have to clear cap space to make a deal work. With Larkin carrying an $8.7 million cap hit, the Wild would likely need to move one or more salaried players. A one-for-one deal involving Matt Boldy and his $7 million cap hit would make the money work, but Minnesota has reportedly been unwilling to part with him.
Dylan Larkin remains under contract with Detroit through the 2030-31 season after signing an eight-year, $69.6 million extension in March 2023. The deal includes a full no-movement clause.
Detroit is reportedly looking for a center in any Dylan Larkin trade
While Minnesota and Detroit were unable to find common ground, Detroit Free Press reporter Helene St. James previously shared what the Red Wings are believed to be seeking if they move Dylan Larkin.
Speaking on The Jason Gregor Show last month, St. James said Detroit’s priority would be acquiring a center.
“They want a center back; that’s what they need; and already before this they were looking for a scoring winger.”
She said the Red Wings had been looking for help at center even before Larkin requested a trade and were also in the market for a scoring winger.
The Red Wings finished the 2025-26 season with a 41-31-10 record and 92 points but missed the playoffs for the 10th straight year.
Amid the uncertainty surrounding Larkin’s future, Ansar Khan also suggested Moritz Seider could eventually wear the captain’s “C.”
“Mo Seider will be the next captain, I wouldn’t be surprised if that happens even if Dylan Larkin comes back.”
Dylan Larkin, who recorded career highs of 34 goals, 33 assists and 67 points in 74 games last season, requested a trade earlier this offseason. Before moving into a senior advisor role, then-general manager Steve Yzerman said he could not guarantee the organization would honor that request.
Edited by Sonali Verma