Dylan Larkin’s trade saga takes a stunning turn as new suitor enters the picture

Several NHL players, most of them American, made trade demands over the summer. Connor Hellebuyck, Zach Werenski, Kirill Marchenko, Shane Wright, Brady Tkachuk, and Dylan Larkin all signaled a desire for change. Tkachuk was dealt, Werenski walked back his request, and the rest are still waiting. But the most intriguing development involves Larkin and a city that was never supposed to be in the conversation.

Larkin remains with the Detroit Red Wings ahead of training camp just two weeks away. Steve Yzerman resigned from his roles as general manager and executive vice president back in July, leaving the franchise in a transitional state.

Whether the Red Wings can afford to start the season with that kind of distraction is an open question. Head coach Todd McLellan is reportedly not eager to manage such a volatile situation, and fans in Detroit are unlikely to stay quiet if their disgruntled captain is still on the roster once games begin.

Back in June, reports indicated Larkin's preferred destinations were limited to three clubs: the Florida Panthers, the Vegas Golden Knights, and the Minnesota Wild. All three are expected to contend in 2026-27, and all three are located south of the Canadian border.

However, sources have indicated that the chances of Larkin landing in Montreal have grown slightly since the summer began. Nobody is saying a deal is imminent, but a door that was reportedly locked tight a few months ago now appears to be at least partially open.

A key factor is Detroit's front office situation. According to Renaud Lavoie, the Red Wings have reportedly identified their new general manager and could make the announcement as early as Monday or Tuesday. Completing a trade becomes far more realistic once a decision-maker is officially in place.

A new GM could also reset the asking price. Detroit had reportedly been seeking a first-line center in return for Larkin, a steep demand for a 30-year-old with five years remaining on his contract. Few teams in the league have that kind of asset available.

Montreal, on the other hand, could reportedly put together a compelling package. The Canadiens possess a deep pipeline of prospects and draft picks that could appeal to a rebuilding Detroit.

The complication remains Larkin himself. According to Lavoie's latest reporting on BPM Sports, Larkin has still not added any Canadian team to his short list of acceptable destinations. The Dallas Stars may have been added to the list, but not the Canadiens.

Still, Montreal's front office is reportedly ready to move quickly if the opportunity arises. "Dylan Larkin, if you're ready to be traded, Montreal will be ready to welcome you as a city and as a hockey team," Lavoie said. "You just have to put the name down, and it could get done extremely fast. He checks every box, and the Canadiens have something to give in return, unlike many clubs in the league."

Reports also suggest that Larkin's character and personality would not be obstacles to a deal with Montreal.

For now, the biggest question is whether Larkin will be willing to expand his list and consider a Canadian market, something his American teammates may well be advising him against.