Sources: Dylan Larkin requests trade from Detroit

Quick Thursday blog before Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final:

According to multiple sources, Dylan Larkin recently requested a trade from Detroit.

There’s a lot to unpack here. First, should mention that no one would comment. Not Larkin, not agent Pat Brisson, not Red Wings Executive Vice-President & GM Steve Yzerman. 

Second, Larkin’s involvement in the trade market is massive. He has a full no-trade clause both this season and next, so his control over the situation does not change July 1. He’s a top-line centre in a league desperate for centres, so there’s going to be a ton of interest. His play at the 4 Nations and Olympics was stellar. That’s going to excite potential trade partners. 

But, what we still have to determine is where he’s willing to go. 

Because no one will talk, we can only guess at the rationale, but there appear to be two critical factors: Detroit’s inability to make the playoffs, and a somewhat frosty relationship between the captain and the team’s top hockey executive. This is also another sign of how the league is changing. Players are getting bolder with these requests — especially in the aftermath of Matthew Tkachuk’s and Quinn Hughes’ power moves into different situations.

There is also the Yzerman factor. He will not be bullied into any scenario he dislikes, no matter how much pressure is applied. It’s hard to believe, though, that someone won’t step up to make it worth his while. 

Buckle up: we will see where this takes us between now and the draft.