Dylan Larkin trade rumors heat up as one team emerges as potential destination

On Thursday, former NHL player Jordan Schmaltz dropped an interesting update on X, saying he's hearing that Larkin is heading to New Jersey.

Schmaltz also suggested something could materialize before the end of the day.

Not long afterward, Puck Empire shared the same information, reporting that Schmaltz was hearing Larkin would be joining the Devils.

While neither post confirms a completed trade, the timing is certainly interesting.

Detroit Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan confirmed Thursday that Larkin will not play against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Interim general manager Shawn Horcoff is also expected to address the situation.

Meanwhile, David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reports that trade discussions have intensified, with New Jersey, Minnesota, Washington and Carolina among the teams involved.

Larkin, 30, requested a trade during the offseason and has since expanded his list of acceptable destinations to include New Jersey.

The former Red Wings captain has recorded two goals and four assists through 10 games this season.

He also carries an $8.7 million annual salary cap hit through the 2030-31 season.

Adding Larkin would give the Devils another established top-six centre, but Detroit's asking price could make things complicated.

For now, nothing has been officially announced, and several teams remain in the mix.

Still, with Larkin being held out of Detroit's lineup and these latest rumours circulating, it's hard not to wonder whether a blockbuster deal is getting closer.

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