As the NHL offseason heats up, the Dylan Larkin rumors are starting to gain serious traction in Vancouver. After a disappointing 2024–25 campaign that saw the Canucks miss the mark on making the playoffs, team brass is reportedly looking at ways to retool the roster. And one name that’s caught the attention of both insiders and fans alike is Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin.
Vancouver Canucks Eyeing Dylan Larkin
According to Canucks insider Ben Kuzma of The Province, Vancouver could be willing to part with their 2025 first-round pick, which currently sits 15th overall, in an effort to acquire a proven top-line center. Kuzma argues that questions surrounding Elias Pettersson’s reliability down the middle and Filip Chytil’s ongoing injury concerns make acquiring a durable, veteran center a priority.
Enter Larkin.
The 28-year-old forward had another strong season for the Red Wings but has reportedly expressed frustration with Detroit’s lack of urgency at the NHL trade deadline. Despite being in the playoff hunt, general manager Steve Yzerman made minimal moves, leading some to speculate that Larkin may be rethinking his long-term commitment—even though he’s under contract through 2031 with a full no-trade clause.
From a trade perspective, prying Larkin out of Motown wouldn’t be easy. As Kuzma noted, the Canucks would likely need to offer more than just their first-round pick. A realistic package could include a roster player like Vasily Podkolzin or Nils Höglander, plus a prospect like Jonathan Lekkerimäki. But even then, Larkin would have to waive his no-trade clause—and there’s been no formal indication from his camp that he’s interested in leaving Detroit.
My Take:
While I think Larkin fits the Canucks’ immediate needs—leadership, speed, and two-way play—the likelihood of a deal hinges on whether Larkin sees Vancouver as a true contender. The Canucks will need to make a compelling case to both Detroit and Larkin himself. Still, using the 15th overall pick as a trade chip makes sense for a team looking to win now.
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Would be hard to trade Podkolzin as he plays for Edmonton.
Detroit would get multiple better offers than that for Larkin.
Terrible proposal for Detroit. The only player on Vancouvers roster worth considering for Larkin is Hughes. Other than that, Detroit gives an emphatic NO THANK YOU !