Dylan Larkin's future under Todd McLellan is reaching a breaking point, and the Detroit Red Wings have made three intriguing roster moves.
ESPN's John Buccigross recently revealed information suggesting a Larkin trade was approaching, putting a specific timeline on a situation that has dominated Detroit's season.
Speaking on the Frankly Hockey podcast on October 16, Buccigross predicted a trade within 7 to 10 days. When Frank Seravalli asked whether he meant Larkin, Buccigross confirmed it.
That places the expected window between October 23 and October 26. With those dates approaching, every transaction involving the Red Wings deserves a closer look.
And Detroit has suddenly made three moves involving its goaltending depth, raising questions about whether the organization is preparing for something larger.
According to The Grind Line Podcast, Michal Postava is joining Detroit, the Toledo Walleye signed a goaltender Monday, and the Grand Rapids Griffins added another goalie on a professional tryout.
"So Postava is joining the Wings, Toldeo signed a goalie on Monday, and the Griffins signed a goalie to a PTO 5 hours ago. It feels like we may have a trade coming."
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None of those moves confirms an impending Larkin trade. But the timing is difficult to ignore with Buccigross's prediction approaching its opening date.
Red Wings complete multiple moves with the Griffins that hints a trade looming
The goaltending activity could simply reflect organizational depth needs. Still, Detroit is actively adjusting personnel across multiple levels while speculation surrounding its former captain intensifies.
Larkin has recorded 5 points in 7 games this season. His production isn't the central issue. His unresolved future with the organization remains the story.
The Michigan native requested a trade during the offseason, leaving Detroit facing the possibility of moving a player who has spent his entire NHL career with the franchise.
His $8,700,000 cap hit and full no-trade protection make negotiations complicated. Any agreement would require Larkin's approval, giving him considerable control over his destination.
Buccigross also suggested that lineup developments were contributing to his belief that a transaction was approaching. That makes Detroit's recent personnel activity especially interesting, even without a confirmed connection.
For McLellan, losing Larkin would create an immediate opening down the middle and force adjustments throughout Detroit's top six. Replacing his minutes and responsibilities wouldn't be straightforward.
The deadline Buccigross identified is now approaching. Detroit hasn't confirmed an agreement, but his unusually specific prediction has placed the Red Wings under an intense spotlight heading into the weekend.
Will Dylan Larkin be traded before October 27?
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