Dylan Larkin Still Wants Out Despite Detroit GM Change

NHL Dylan Larkin Still Wants Out Despite Detroit GM Change

By João Bitencourte

August 20, 2026 • 9:03 PM EDT

Updated 14 days ago

Dylan Larkin Still Wants Out Despite Detroit GM Change

If you were hoping Steve Yzerman stepping down as Detroit Red Wings GM might heal things with Dylan Larkin, there’s bad news. Veteran Red Wings reporter Bob Duff went on NHL Tonight this week and said there’s zero sign that the management shakeup will convince Larkin to stay. Even with a new face calling the shots, Larkin’s trade request stands. So, with the clock ticking down to training camp, Detroit’s most consistent forward is still out the door in his own mind.

According to Yahoo Sports, Duff made it clear: “there’s no indication that the switch in management is gonna lead him to wanting to remain here.” You don’t get more direct than that.

Let’s be honest, a reset at the top doesn’t solve the bigger story here. Larkin, a Detroit mainstay, apparently still wants to leave and the rumblings are loud: there’s no deal close and his preferred destinations can’t or won’t pay what Detroit is after. If you’re betting on how this saga plays out, you want to look at the context behind the headlines.

It’s not just Duff saying this—other reporters have backed it up. According to MLive, Minnesota is Larkin’s first choice, but the Wild are short on pieces for a swap that would satisfy Detroit. The Knights, Panthers, and Stars are also rumored as options on his trade list, but none of those clubs have met the Red Wings’ steep asking price either. The clock is running, yet nothing is lining up.

Bob Duff says Larkin’s desire to leave remains unchanged even after GM change
Multiple teams listed as preferred landing spots, but none close to meeting Detroit’s demands
Training camp is just weeks away and no trade appears imminent
Minnesota is reportedly the top destination, but they lack trade capital
Uncertainty surrounds Larkin’s status, captaincy, and Detroit’s roster plans

What Detroit’s Dilemma Means For Bettors

If you’re tracking Detroit’s outlook this season, this storyline makes things messy. You’ve got a star player who might not even be all-in come opening night, yet he’s not gone either. That’s a headache for bettors and fantasy owners alike, because uncertainty usually leads to volatility both in performance and the dressing room. A distracted locker room can tank value across the roster, and the impact stretches to lines, futures, and player props.

Trade Talks Stalled Out… For Now

Larkin’s preference for Minnesota might be public, but unless the Wild wheel and deal hard, nothing’s happening. The other teams—Vegas, Florida, Dallas—aren’t budging either. Detroit has drawn this line: either meet their price or Larkin stays. That makes it more likely Larkin starts the season in red and white, at least on paper.

Key Developments That Matter

Larkin’s trade stance unchanged by recent GM change
No clubs have moved close to Detroit’s high asking price
Preferred destinations lack required assets or willingness
Questions around Larkin’s captaincy and impact on roster cohesion

What to Watch as Camp Opens

Keep your eye on Detroit’s opening day plans. Is Larkin still at the heart of the team, or do the Red Wings get aggressive and take a lower offer if this drama keeps up? Will a drawn-out saga distract a young team trying to take the next step? Either way, if you’re betting futures or props around the Red Wings or Larkin, keep contingency plans in your back pocket.

Key Takeaways

Larkin’s trade request stands regardless of GM change
No imminent trade; teams on his wishlist aren’t offering enough
Minnesota is Larkin’s top target, but trade return doesn’t add up
Larkin’s status makes Detroit’s season a wild card for bettors
Expect ongoing trade rumors as camp gets underway
Detroit’s depth and leadership situation remain in flux
Monitor for sudden market moves if a trade nears completion
Hold off on overcommitting to Detroit players for now

The bottom line is simple: there’s smoke, but not much fire yet. If you’re betting this story, prepare for turbulence and don’t take Detroit’s status quo for granted.

More coverage: NHL news coverage, NHL betting hub and NHL picks and predictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Despite changes in Detroit’s management, seasoned reporter Bob Duff has stated there is no indication that Larkin’s trade request has softened. The source suggests there are underlying issues beyond general management that continue to influence Larkin’s desire to move.

Larkin’s reported preferred teams include the Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, Florida Panthers, and Dallas Stars. However, none have met Detroit’s asking price for a trade.

No, a trade does not seem close at the moment. None of the teams on Larkin’s list have the assets or willingness to meet Detroit’s demands, with training camp approaching.

At this point, unless Detroit lowers its trade demands or a team ups its offer, Larkin is expected to remain with the Red Wings for the start of the season.

The uncertainty around Larkin means Detroit roster and player futures are high risk. His potential movement or unsettled status could affect locker room dynamics, impacting team and prop betting markets.

Detroit is reportedly asking for significant value in any deal involving Larkin. None of his preferred teams have been willing or able to meet the high price so far.

Questions remain unanswered about Larkin’s leadership status. The club has not announced any changes, but speculation persists given the unsettled trade situation.