Wild lead pursuit for Larkin as Detroit stands firm on trade terms

The Detroit Red Wings have suspended Dylan Larkin without pay after he told the team he would not play until a trade was finalized, according to the New York Post ^[1]. The suspension marks the climax of a five-month standoff that began when Larkin’s trade request became public in June.

Interim general manager Shawn Horcoff announced the decision Thursday evening, stating the organization was “disappointed” by Larkin’s refusal to honor his obligations to his teammates. Larkin, 30, declined to report for Thursday’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks, as confirmed by ESPN ^[2]. Head coach Todd McLellan had previously indicated Larkin would miss the matchup for “trade-related” reasons.

Larkin has a full no-trade clause but has provided the Red Wings with a list of 10 teams he would accept a move to, according to The Athletic via the New York Post ^[1]. This expanded list includes the Minnesota Wild, Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, Dallas Stars, Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes, Utah Mammoth, Tampa Bay Lightning, New Jersey Devils and Colorado Avalanche. ESPN reported that the Wild are among the most aggressive suitors ^[2].

Larkin’s agent, Pat Brisson, told ESPN that his client has been “professional and cooperative” and has given Detroit ample time to complete a deal ^[2]. The decision to halt his participation came after Larkin was stripped of his captaincy before training camp and missed the season opener due to injury. He has recorded six points in 10 games this season.

Despite recent fan interest from Montreal, sources told ESPN that Larkin is not interested in joining a Canadian team ^[2]. The Red Wings stated that any trade must still be in the organization’s best interest and support long-term goals. Larkin is in the fourth year of an eight-year, $69.6 million contract.