Dylan Larkin remains potential trade target for Montreal Canadiens

Dylan Larkin remains potential trade target for Montreal Canadiens

by

The Montreal Canadiens remain a potential destination for Detroit Red Wings star center Dylan Larkin, though the trade price is currently described as prohibitive. While Larkin has not officially added Montreal to his ten-team trade list, Red Wings assistant general manager Kris Draper has been extensively scouting the Canadiens’ recent games, suggesting Detroit is actively evaluating a deal despite the steep asking price and Larkin’s no-move clause, Sportsnet reported.

For Detroit, the move would signal a pivot, especially as defenseman Simon Edvinsson is also seeking a trade. For Montreal, it represents a gamble of their premium prospect pool to secure a No. 1 center in his prime.

Detroit Scouts Larkin Despite Massive Financial Hurdles

The evidence of Detroit’s interest is written in travel itineraries. Kris Draper has been spotted at multiple Canadiens games recently, including matchups in Toronto, Montreal, and Chicago.

However, the financial and asset hurdles are massive. Larkin carries an $8.7 million cap hit through 2031. According to an Eastern Conference executive cited by Sportsnet, the price for a No. 1 center in this cap environment is naturally exorbitant, and that price is unlikely to drop while Detroit remains competitive. The Wings currently hold a 5-4-3 record, and while Larkin has seen milder production since returning from an early-season injury—posting two goals and four assists in 10 games—he continues to log nearly 22 minutes per game.

The No-Movement Clause Roadblock

The primary obstacle is Larkin’s own preferences. Reports indicate that Larkin has expanded his trade list from three to 10 teams, but notably, no Canadian teams are included. His approved list currently consists of the Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, Carolina Hurricanes, Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, New Jersey Devils, Tampa Bay Lightning, Utah Mammoth, and Washington Capitals.

Dylan Larkin remains potential trade target for Montreal Canadiens
Photo: A Winning Habit

Despite this, Elliotte Friedman told TNT that the reception Larkin received from Montreal fans—specifically chants at the Bell Centre—has “moved the needle.” There is a strategic nuance here: by not officially listing Montreal, Larkin may be helping Detroit maintain his top trade value by avoiding the appearance of desperation.

Montreal Considers Chandler Stephenson to Avoid Crippling Costs

Montreal possesses the specific type of “premium assets” Detroit desires, but the cost of acquiring Larkin could be crippling. To facilitate such a move, Montreal would have to dip into a deep prospect pool that includes Michael Hage, Alexander Zharovsky, David Reinbacher, and Bryce Pickford. Detroit may also be eyeing roster players like 23-year-old Oliver Kapanen.

While Stephenson offers a lower cap hit and significant playoff pedigree, Larkin represents a higher ceiling for a team looking to build around a marquee face of the franchise.

The Legacy Cost in Hockeytown

Larkin, a Michigan native drafted by the Wings in 2014, has already faced the consequences of his trade request. On opening night at Little Caesars Arena, he endured heavy booing from the home crowd before retreating to the locker room. Despite the friction, he has continued to compete.

The risk for Montreal is that paying an “exorbitant” price for a 30-year-old could lead to a regression in value if Larkin’s production dips or if the team’s window closes. Conversely, the risk for Detroit is losing a top-tier center without receiving a return that justifies the void in their lineup.

Dylan larkin red wings
Photo: The Hockey Writers

Whether Montreal is willing to deplete its future for a present-day superstar remains the central question. For now, the situation remains a stalemate of high valuations and restrictive lists, with the only movement being Kris Draper’s presence in the stands.

Disclaimer: The analytical insights and data provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.

Keep reading

Read next