Dylan Larkin's future under Todd McLellan remains uncertain, and the Detroit Red Wings may have identified their preferred return from Minnesota.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has pointed toward Wild forward Danila Yurov as a potential centerpiece in trade discussions involving Detroit's captain.
Friedman believes Yurov's development has made him considerably more appealing to the Red Wings than he was earlier this year. That could change how Detroit approaches negotiations with Minnesota.
The message coming out of Detroit is becoming clearer. The Red Wings aren't interested in moving their captain for draft picks and distant prospects alone.
They want young talent capable of contributing at the NHL level, and Yurov fits that description better than a traditional futures package.
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Friedman's comments also suggest Detroit could be examining multiple possibilities, leaving general manager Shawn Horcoff with options rather than committing exclusively to Minnesota.
Danila Yurov could get Dylan Larkin trade done for Minnesota
Yurov's development gives the Wild an interesting bargaining chip. He's young enough to fit Detroit's longer-term plans while offering the potential to contribute much sooner than another prospect.
Minnesota reporter Michael Russo previously indicated that either Yurov or Charlie Stramel could be necessary to complete a deal for Larkin.
That creates an uncomfortable decision for Wild management. Acquiring an established center like Larkin would strengthen their lineup, but surrendering a promising young forward carries its own consequences.
Veteran defenseman Jonas Brodin has also entered the broader conversation, although Minnesota has shown little interest in moving him.
For Detroit, the priority appears to be securing a meaningful return rather than simply collecting future assets. Losing Larkin would leave a major hole down the middle and change the direction of the roster.
There's another important detail. Larkin's modified no-trade protection includes a 10-team list, with Minnesota reportedly among the destinations he would consider. That gives the Wild a path into the conversation, although no agreement has been announced.
Friedman's latest assessment doesn't confirm an imminent trade or an accepted offer. It does identify Yurov as a player worth watching if negotiations advance, and Minnesota may have to decide how much young talent it's prepared to surrender.
Should the Detroit Red Wings trade Dylan Larkin to Minnesota if Danila Yurov is included in the return?
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