Dylan Larkin's exit from Detroit isn't moving quickly, leaving head coach Todd McLellan with a major locker-room issue before the season begins.
The Red Wings center reportedly requested a trade after Detroit missed the playoffs, but NHL insider Chris Johnston indicated a deal isn't expected anytime soon.
That leaves Larkin and Detroit staring at an uncomfortable situation. The organization still controls his contract, while Larkin controls where that contract can go through his full no-movement clause.
His list of approved destinations is reportedly limited, reducing the number of clubs able to seriously enter trade talks. Detroit also has little reason to move its top center without getting a return it considers strong enough.
"Chris Johnston: Re Dylan Larkin trade request/Red Wings: Right now the expectation is he's not moving any time soon - Chris Johnston Show (9/17)"
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Larkin carries an $8,700,000 cap hit through the 2030-31 season. Any interested team needs both the assets Detroit wants and enough financial flexibility to absorb the contract.
The situation gets tougher with Larkin dealing with an upper-body injury and listed as questionable for the start of the season. That gives Detroit another reason not to rush negotiations.
Detroit faces a difficult Larkin decision
Larkin has played 808 regular-season NHL games, producing 276 goals and 367 assists. Detroit isn't dealing with a depth player here. It's trying to set the price on its longtime first-line center.
There is also a major leadership change hanging over the story. Larkin reportedly won't wear the captain's C this season, adding another layer to an already tense relationship between player and organization.
Dallas was previously linked to Larkin, with Detroit reportedly asking about Wyatt Johnston during discussions. Those talks didn't produce a deal, showing how difficult it may be to find common ground.
For McLellan, the hockey problem is immediate. If Larkin remains with the Red Wings, Detroit needs to determine where its former captain fits while trade questions follow the club through camp.
For Larkin, waiting carries its own risk. His market can change quickly depending on his health, production and willingness to expand the list of teams he would accept.
Detroit doesn't need to force the move. And according to Johnston's latest indication, the Red Wings aren't close to ending the standoff.
That means Larkin could begin another season in Detroit despite asking to leave, turning every lineup decision and every conversation around his future into part of the bigger story.
Should the Detroit Red Wings trade Dylan Larkin before the season ends?
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