Dylan Larkin trade decision coming soon; Canadiens in the mix

Dylan Larkin. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Dylan Larkin trade decision coming within days, and Canadiens now in the mix

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Oct 17, 2026 11:43 AM ET

The Dylan Larkin trade rumors keep gaining momentum, but a couple of new wrinkles suggest that both the forward and the Detroit Red Wings might be shifting their plans.

First, the Red Wings may not be as ready to move him as it seemed. Insider Chris Johnston said on "The Chris Johnston Show" that while it may be too late to “put the toothpaste back in the tube,” Detroit has not ruled out keeping Larkin as an organizational decision.

Owner Chris Ilitch offered a public show of support, according to Max Bultman. “Until they’re not a Red Wing, they have my full support,” Ilitch said, adding that he backs every player on the roster and does everything he can to help them reach their full potential. Some believe there may be a way to repair the relationship.

Larkin, however, might not feel the same. Johnston still believes the forward still wants to be traded. He might even be open to expanding his trade list to make it happen. He’s got a list of preferred teams, but there’s now talk that he might consider the Montreal Canadiens.

Chris Johnston on The Chris Johnston Show about Larkin: I'm not sure you can put the toothpaste back in the tube here but the Red Wings really the only point I'm making is as an organizational decision they've not ruled that out as a potential outcome. Now I still think Dylan… pic.twitter.com/T0KCydimZy
— R i N K Y (@RinkyReport) October 16, 2026

Montreal has emerged as a speculated landing spot. Canadiens fans made their feelings known last Saturday night, chanting “We want Larkin!” in the building. Larkin said the moment was “interesting” and that he never imagined hearing it there. He called Montreal “the best atmosphere in hockey” and praised the fans as knowledgeable and passionate, but said he quickly refocused on the game, per The Athletic’s Arpon Basu.

Marco D’Amico noted, “That door is not totally closed… Dylan [Larkin] doesn’t hate the idea of going to Montreal. It’s just not one of his top 10 preferences.”

The #GoHabsGo interest in #LGRW Dylan Larkin is well known.. but what happens if he changes his mind?

Will fans still stand by the "We want Larkin" chants if it costs them Michael Hage?@StarrandDamico breaks it all down ⤵️https://t.co/fxsyfYsrm8
— Marco D'Amico (@mndamico) October 16, 2026

Will it be Montreal or Detroit?

So which would he prefer? Based on Johnston’s read, Larkin leans toward a move, and Montreal’s passionate fan base clearly wants him. But Larkin still has a few teams ahead of the Canadiens on his preferred list. Meanwhile, Detroit’s willingness to keep him leaves the door open to a return. For now, the decision rests largely with the Red Wings.

If Detroit does deal him, the price will be steep. The Red Wings are reportedly seeking three or four pieces in return, including two “A-” quality prospects, a top-nine forward who can contribute right away, and a first-round pick.

John Buccigross on "Frankly Hockey" reported this week that he believes Detroit will make a trade within 7 to 10 days. I got a little bit of information last night that tells me we’re going to see a trade. When asked, he confirmed it would include Larkin.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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