Elliotte Friedman reports Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin requests a trade out of Michigan

The Detroit Red Wings are about to face a big blow after captain Dylan Larkin's future with the franchise remains uncertain this season. Reports suggest that the player has requested a trade out of the team and is looking for new possibilities. The Red Wings have repeatedly fallen short with their performance, as they have failed to qualify for the postseason, and this has been ongoing for quite long. In this season, they finished 41-31-10 in the Eastern Conference. Reports suggest that the club's inability to return to the postseason and its direction under Steve Yzerman contributed to the captain's decision for a fresh start.

Dylan Larkin requests a trade out of Michigan following the club’s offseason drought

Dylan Larkin has been one of the most influential faces of the Red Wings for several seasons, and he continues to be one of the most important players. However, speculations suggest that the Michigan native has reportedly decided to move out of the Detroit Red Wings due to their inability to return to the postseason. This has fueled league-wide speculation regarding the captain's long-term future with the team.

According to reports by insider Elliotte Friedman, the star forward has recently requested a trade out of Michigan. The insider stated, “There’s a lot to unpack here. First, should mention that no one would comment. Not Larkin, not agent Pat Brisson, not Red Wings Executive Vice-President & GM Steve Yzerman.”


He further added, “Second, Larkin’s involvement in the trade market is massive. He has a full no-trade clause both this season and next, so his control over the situation does not change July 1. He’s a top-line centre in a league desperate for centres, so there’s going to be a ton of interest. His play at the 4 Nations and Olympics was stellar. That’s going to excite potential trade partners.”

The Michigan native has consistently produced offensively while serving as Detroit's leader both on and off the ice. He also played a significant role for Team USA during its successful run at the 2026 Winter Olympics, displaying an impressive performance for all.

Unfortunately, the franchise's playoff drought and return to postseason contention remains one of the longest in the NHL. This is what perhaps led the captain to take this decision.

The 29-year-old recorded 34 goals and 67 points in 74 games last season while continuing to serve as Detroit's most important forward. However, any potential deal would be complicated as Larkin has a full no-trade clause, which gives him significant control over his future.