A league insider says the cost of acquiring Detroit’s star centre may be too steep for Montreal.
Key points
- League insiders label Larkin’s trade value as prohibitive due to his cap hit and long‑term role as Detroit’s top centre.
- Montreal has a pool of prospects and depth players that could be offered, but none appear sufficient to meet the reported price.
- Detroit’s recent on‑ice success reduces pressure to move Larkin, keeping the price high.
According to a Sportsnet report citing league sources, the Detroit Red Wings’ centre Dylan Larkin is unlikely to be dealt to the Montreal Canadiens unless the Habs meet what insiders describe as a “prohibitive” price.
One unnamed Eastern Conference executive said Larkin’s status as a long‑time No. 1 centre commands a premium, especially when his $8.7 million cap hit through 2031 is factored in.
Price tag and cap hit
The Wings, who have improved to a 5‑4‑3 record after a rough start, continue to rely on Larkin’s roughly 22 minutes of ice time per game; in his last ten contests he has recorded two goals and four assists.
Montreal’s interest appears genuine, with assistant GM Kris Draper observed at several Canadiens games this month, and the Habs reportedly possess prospects such as forward Michael Hage, defensemen David Reinbacher and Luke Mittlestadt, among others, that could be part of a package.
Wings’ season and Larkin’s production
However, Larkin has not listed Montreal among the destinations he would accept under his no‑movement clause, and the Red Wings are also dealing with a holdout from defenseman Simon Edvinsson, complicating any multi‑player deal.
Given the current market assessment, sources say the price is not expected to fall while Detroit remains competitive, meaning a Montreal offer would need to be substantially above the baseline for a trade to materialise.
Reader questions
Why is Dylan Larkin’s trade price considered prohibitive?
Sources point to his $8.7 million cap hit through 2031 and his history as a No. 1 centre, which together create a premium that teams find difficult to match.
What assets could the Canadiens realistically offer for Larkin?
The Habs are said to have prospects such as Michael Hage, David Reinbacher, Luke Mittlestadt and other young forwards and defensemen that could be included in a package, though none are confirmed to satisfy the price tag.
How does Detroit’s current performance affect the likelihood of a trade?
With the Wings back in playoff contention and Larkin logging heavy minutes, the organization is not in a hurry to move him, which keeps his market value elevated.
Source: sportsnet.ca
