Larkin Trade Request Hands Canadiens Path to First-Line Center

Dylan Larkin’s camp submitted a short list of preferred destinations to Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman last week, placing the Canadiens among the teams positioned to land the 29-year-old center.

Larkin’s Request Reshapes Detroit’s Offseason

Pierre LeBrun reported that Yzerman received the initial list of destinations from the Larkin camp, a development that immediately complicates Detroit’s plans for a first-line center replacement plus a second-line pivot, top-line left wing and bottom-six scoring depth. LeBrun noted Yzerman’s track record for extracting value suggests the Red Wings can still secure a solid return despite the leverage shift. Max Bultman added that the request forces Detroit to address multiple forward holes at once, raising the possibility the organization shifts from a playoff push to a full rebuild. Bultman further questioned the long-term outlook for Alex DeBrincat, who enters the final year before unrestricted free agency and could be moved if the Wings accelerate their timeline reset.

Michael Russo and Joe Smith stated the Minnesota Wild will actively pursue Larkin, while Fluto Shinzawa indicated the Boston Bruins will explore options but likely lack the trade capital required. These competing suitors create a bidding environment that could drive up the price for any team, including Montreal, yet also increase the chance Larkin lands in a preferred market.

Montreal Eyes Second-Line Upgrade

Stu Cowan of The Montreal Gazette assessed Larkin as a strong fit for the Canadiens’ second-line center role behind Nick Suzuki. Cowan projected the Red Wings’ asking price would begin with top prospect Michael Hage, an asset Montreal can now consider moving after emerging from its rebuild phase. The Canadiens’ improved roster depth makes parting with a high-end prospect more feasible than in prior years.

Cowan also highlighted Samuel Montembeault’s availability after the 29-year-old lost the starting job to Jakub Dobes, with Jacob Fowler slotted as backup. Montembeault carries one year remaining at a $3.15-million cap hit and no no-trade clause, positioning him as an attractive depth option for teams seeking experienced goaltending. Renaud Lavoie reported a market exists for Kirby Dach, the 25-year-old pending restricted free agent whose four-year tenure since arriving from Chicago has been marked by injuries and inconsistency; qualifying Dach’s rights would cost Montreal $4 million, prompting consideration of a trade to create cap flexibility.

Cap and Asset Calculus for Both Sides

The Canadiens can address multiple roster needs by moving Montembeault and potentially Dach while adding Larkin’s established production without extending the rebuild. Detroit, conversely, must weigh whether retaining Larkin through training camp risks further erosion of team chemistry or whether an early deal preserves draft capital for the next core. LeBrun emphasized both organizations benefit from resolving the situation before camp opens, avoiding prolonged distraction.

Larkin’s request therefore accelerates timelines on both ends of the transaction: the Red Wings confront an earlier-than-expected reset, while Montreal gains leverage to secure a proven center at a moment when its prospect pool supports bold moves.