Dylan Larkin's trade situation just widened for Todd McLellan and the Detroit Red Wings after a fresh update from Elliotte Friedman.
Friedman reported on 32 Thoughts that Larkin is willing to consider more destinations than previously believed, putting his list somewhere around eight teams.
That's a significant change from the three-team group originally reported: the Minnesota Wild, Florida Panthers and Vegas Golden Knights.
Friedman specifically identified the Colorado Avalanche and Washington Capitals while also pointing toward the Dallas Stars and Tampa Bay Lightning as teams believed to be acceptable destinations.
He also indicated that he doesn't believe a Canadian team is part of Larkin's expanded group. The common thread is clear: Larkin's reported options are clubs he believes can win.
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That changes the pressure around Detroit. A narrow list gave the Red Wings fewer potential trading partners and limited the number of teams that could realistically compete for Larkin.
Larkin gives Detroit more room to work
Larkin still controls the process because of the trade protection in his contract. Detroit can explore possibilities, but the center ultimately has to approve his destination.
His request dates back to shortly after last season ended. The Red Wings missed the playoffs for a 10th consecutive season, and Larkin subsequently asked to be moved.
Now the door is noticeably wider. Colorado, Washington, Dallas and Tampa Bay create very different roster, cap and asset possibilities for Detroit to examine.
The timing matters, too. Training camp is underway and McLellan has to prepare his lineup while one of Detroit's biggest names remains at the center of an unresolved trade situation.
Friedman's update doesn't mean a deal is imminent. It does mean Detroit potentially has more paths to one than it appeared to have when Larkin's request first surfaced.
And for the Red Wings, that's the development that matters most: Larkin's reported willingness to expand his destinations gives the front office a larger market to work with.
Will Dylan Larkin be traded before the regular season begins?
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