Larkin’s Trade List Grows to Ten Teams as Red Wings Struggle to Find Immediate Value

Key points

• Larkin’s preferred trade destinations now include the Dallas Stars, Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes, Utah Mammoth, Tampa Bay Lightning, New Jersey Devils, and Colorado Avalanche, in addition to his initial three choices.
• The Red Wings are seeking a first-line center in exchange for Larkin, potentially requiring a multi-team deal involving top prospects and first-round picks to satisfy all parties.
• Interim GM Shawn Horcoff faces a December 1 deadline to sign restricted free agent Simon Edvinsson while continuing to pursue a trade for Larkin.
• Larkin has returned from injured reserve and has played in seven of the team’s first nine games, recording one goal and four assists.
• The Montreal Canadiens are notably absent from Larkin’s list, despite reported strong interest from the club and fan support, as Larkin reportedly avoids Canadian destinations.

Background

Larkin requested a trade this offseason, leading to his removal as captain in September. He missed the season opener due to injury and faced boos from fans during his return, though he later silenced critics with a two-point performance in a win against Ottawa. The Red Wings fired GM Steve Yzerman in July, leaving Horcoff as interim leader. Earlier reports indicated Larkin’s list had eight teams, but it has since grown to ten.

Why it matters

The unresolved trade situation highlights the Red Wings’ strategic dilemma: balancing immediate competitive needs with long-term asset management. Larkin’s no-trade clause and specific preferences limit Detroit’s flexibility, while the lack of a permanent GM complicates decision-making. A successful trade could bolster the team’s center depth without triggering a rebuild, a path Horcoff has explicitly rejected.

What to watch

Horcoff must finalize Edvinsson’s contract by December 1 and continue searching for a trade partner for Larkin. The Red Wings may need to engage in a multi-team deal to acquire a first-line center while offering prospects and draft picks. Larkin’s performance and the team’s playoff prospects will likely influence the urgency of any trade discussions.