Trade List Expansion
Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has reportedly expanded his list of preferred trade destinations to four teams. According to a report by MLive’s Ansar Khan on July 9, 2026, the Dallas Stars have been added to the list of franchises to which the center would be willing to waive his full no-trade clause.
Larkin, who has served as the face of the Red Wings franchise for over a decade, requested a trade earlier this offseason. He previously identified the Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild, and Vegas Golden Knights as his preferred landing spots. Despite the addition of Dallas, the trade process remains complex as the Red Wings seek significant compensation in return for their captain.
Stakes and Negotiations
The Red Wings have reportedly engaged in discussions with the Stars, specifically inquiring about young forward Wyatt Johnston. However, sources indicate that the Stars have no intention of parting with the 23-year-old, who recorded a career-high 45 goals last season. The disparity between Detroit’s demand for high-impact, immediate-value players and the current market reality remains a primary hurdle.
General Manager Steve Yzerman has maintained that while the organization is listening to offers, there is no guarantee a trade will occur. “My job as the manager of the Detroit Red Wings is always to do what is in the best interest of the Detroit Red Wings,” Yzerman stated on June 27. With five years remaining on his contract, Larkin remains a pivotal, albeit potentially departing, asset.
Institutional Context
The ongoing trade saga highlights the tension between the franchise’s decade-long playoff drought and the desire to remain competitive. Larkin, drafted by Detroit in 2014, has been a central figure in the club’s recent history. As the offseason progresses, the organization faces a critical decision: whether to secure a major return for their captain or retain him to bolster a top line that has struggled to push the team into the postseason.