Recent reports suggest the Dallas Stars have inquired about the asking price for Detroit Red Wings forward Dylan Larkin. While a hypothetical trade involving Jason Robertson for Larkin has been discussed, it appears to be an ill-fitting move for the Stars.
The Stars already possess strong center depth with Wyatt Johnston, Matt Duchene, and Roope Hintz. Duchene struggled on the wing last season, and while Hintz could potentially shift to the wing, he doesn’t possess the same scoring prowess as Robertson.
Although it’s understandable for the Stars to explore their options and gauge the cost of acquiring Larkin, a trade sending Robertson to Detroit seems unlikely to be beneficial for Dallas.
Mock Trades for Dylan Larkin
Analyzing mock trades from the Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild, and Vegas Golden Knights offers insight into potential destinations and returns for Dylan Larkin.
Florida Panthers Scenario:
Detroit Red Wings receive: Anton Lundell, 2026 9th overall pick, 2026 2nd round pick
Florida Panthers receive: Dylan Larkin and Sebastian Cossa
This deal might involve the Panthers overpaying by parting with Lundell and a high draft pick for Larkin. However, the Panthers could be looking to acquire a goaltender like Cossa, given Sergei Bobrovsky’s pending UFA status and a lack of contracted goalies for the upcoming season.
Minnesota Wild Scenario:
Detroit Red Wings receive: Charlie Stramel, Danila Yurov, 2027 1st round pick
Minnesota Wild receive: Dylan Larkin
The Red Wings’ organization could benefit from strengthening their center depth. While neither Stramel nor Yurov may be top-line centers, they could solidify the middle-six. Stramel’s value has increased following a strong season at Michigan State.
Vegas Golden Knights Scenario:
Detroit Red Wings receive: Pavel Dorofeyev (RFA) and Tomas Hertl
Vegas Golden Knights receive: Dylan Larkin
The Golden Knights appear to be overpaying in this scenario, but it would grant them significant cap flexibility. Hertl has four years remaining on his contract with a $6.75 million AAV. With limited projected cap space and a desire to re-sign Rasmus Andersson, acquiring Larkin could be a complex move.
