Dylan Larkin, the 29-year-old captain of the Detroit Red Wings, publicly requested a trade from the team in August 2026. Larkin has spent his entire 11-season NHL career in Michigan but has never reached the Stanley Cup Playoffs with the Red Wings [1, 2].
Larkin still has five years remaining on his contract, earning $8.7 million annually. He holds a full no-trade clause valid for the next two years, meaning he can veto potential trades during that period [1, 2].
The Detroit native enjoyed a strong 2025-2026 campaign, scoring 34 goals and providing 33 assists. Over his NHL career, he has played 808 games, accumulating 643 points since being drafted 15th overall in 2014 [1, 2].
Earlier this year, Larkin was a key player on Team USA’s gold medal-winning Olympic hockey team, further demonstrating his impact at the international level [1, 2].
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that Larkin’s trade request stems partly from the team repeatedly missing the playoffs and a strained relationship with Red Wings general manager and franchise legend Steve Yzerman. "The 29-year-old has asked the team for a trade, citing the team repeatedly missing the playoffs and a less-than-stellar relationship with Red Wings GM and franchise legend Steve Yzerman," Friedman noted [2].
Larkin has never played outside Michigan, making this move a significant moment for the player and franchise.
The Red Wings have yet to announce how they will respond to Larkin’s request or potential trade destinations. Larkin’s no-trade clause gives him considerable control over his next team within the next two years [1, 2].
