Dylan Larkin to Canadiens? Analyst Makes Case for Blockbuster Trade

Dylan Larkin remains one of the biggest names connected to potential NHL trade speculation after no deal materialized during the offseason. The Detroit Red Wings captain is expected to report to training camp and begin the upcoming season with the franchise.

Larkin reportedly requested a trade after the 2025-26 season, with Detroit’s lack of playoff success and his relationship with former general manager Steve Yzerman among the factors believed to have contributed to the situation.

Analyst believes Montreal Canadiens are a strong fit for Dylan Larkin

Although several teams have reportedly been linked with Larkin, Montreal has emerged as an interesting potential destination. On TSN OverDrive, Bryan Hayes and Jamie McLennan discussed why the Montreal Canadiens could make sense for the veteran center.

Hayes argued that Larkin could provide Montreal with an impressive one-two punch alongside captain Nick Suzuki while complementing the team’s offensive talent on the wings.

“All along, Larkin to Montreal just makes sense. Suzuki and Larkin as your one-two punch, with the firepower already on the wings and a deep prospect pool—that’s a perfect fit.”

McLennan also highlighted the financial and personal factors that could make the move easier for Larkin. The analyst noted that Larkin would already have familiar connections within the Canadiens’ group.

“It’s not like there’s no Americans there.”

Hayes specifically pointed to Lane Hutson and Cole Caufield as two American players already established in Montreal’s lineup.

Larkin could fit alongside Montreal’s core

One of the biggest attractions of a potential trade would be Larkin’s ability to immediately strengthen Montreal down the middle. Pairing him with Suzuki could give the Canadiens two established centers capable of handling significant offensive responsibilities.

Larkin also has an existing connection with Caufield, as the two players skate together during the offseason. That familiarity could potentially make a transition to Montreal smoother if a trade were eventually completed.

Montreal’s prospect depth could also make the Canadiens one of the more interesting teams to monitor if Detroit eventually decides to move its captain.

Dylan Larkin’s other potential trade destinations face obstacles

Montreal is not the only team that has been mentioned in connection with Larkin. The Detroit captain reportedly indicated that he would consider waiving his no-trade clause for a short list that included the Minnesota Wild, Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Dallas Stars.

However, several of those potential destinations have encountered obstacles. Veteran reporter Ansar Khan noted that Florida, Vegas, and Dallas either have limited interest, insufficient salary-cap flexibility, or little willingness to surrender the assets required to acquire Larkin.

“His secondary choices – Florida, Vegas and Dallas – either have little interest, insufficient cap space, or no desire to part with what it would take.”

Dylan Larkin’s contract and recent production

Larkin has five seasons remaining on the eight-year, $69.6 million contract he signed with the Red Wings. The 30-year-old has spent more than a decade with Detroit after the organization selected him with the No. 15 overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft.

During the 2025-26 season, Larkin recorded 67 points, scoring 34 goals and adding 33 assists. His experience, leadership, and offensive production would make him a significant addition for any team able to complete a trade.

Could Montreal become Larkin’s next destination?

For now, Larkin remains a Red Wing and is expected to begin the season in Detroit. However, his reported trade request means his future will remain a major storyline as the new NHL season approaches.

If the Canadiens decide to pursue a blockbuster deal, Larkin’s fit alongside Suzuki, Caufield, Hutson, and Montreal’s developing core could make the franchise an intriguing destination. The biggest question will be whether the Canadiens are willing to pay the substantial trade price required to acquire a longtime NHL captain.