Insider all but confirms where Dylan Larkin is being traded
Photo credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
The Florida Panthers may be staring at a decision that could reshape their season. If the latest medical news on Aleksander Barkov lands badly, one prominent hockey voice believes Florida will not sit still, and Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin is the name being floated.
Marco D'Amico put the theory out publicly:
If the Florida Panthers received the worst-case scenario news on Sasha Barkov, you have to wonder if they bite the bullet and make an aggressive play for Dylan Larkin.
Can't see Bill Zito chancing another year of their core's Cup contention window.
Can't see Bill Zito chancing another year of their core's Cup contention window.
Why Larkin Fits Florida's Urgency
Florida has built its identity on strength down the middle, and Barkov anchors that structure. An extended absence would leave a huge opening on a roster that has lifted the Stanley Cup in consecutive seasons.
Larkin is a proven number one center who plays in every situation and leads by example. Adding him would give Paul Maurice a way to protect the championship window instead of hoping it stays open while the captain heals.
General manager Bill Zito has never been shy about big swings, as the Matthew Tkachuk blockbuster in 2022 showed. A move for Larkin would fit that pattern.
Detroit Will Not Make It Easy
Any pursuit runs straight into the Red Wings' stance. Chris Johnston has reported the expectation that Larkin is not moving soon, and David Pagnotta has said Detroit refuses a futures-only package.
Florida has spent years trading picks and prospects for immediate help, so building a return that satisfies Detroit would take creativity.
Larkin has also endured a rough atmosphere at home, with fans booing him at the home opener. A fresh start with a contender could be attractive, yet Detroit's interim management has reportedly shown interest in mending the relationship, which could stretch this saga further.
For now, everything hinges on Barkov. Until Florida clarifies his status, the Larkin chatter remains speculation. If the diagnosis turns dire, though, expect the Panthers to start making calls.
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