The Boston Bruins made it clear this offseason that they have no intention of taking a step back. General manager Don Sweeney strengthened the roster by bringing in forward JJ Peterka, adding defenseman Will Borgen, and making several other moves designed to push the team back into the thick of the Atlantic Division race.
However, Boston’s offseason plans may not be over just yet, as the organization has now been linked to a much bigger name that could reshape its future.
Bruins Linked to $69.6 Million Star Dylan Larkin
Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has found himself at the center of trade speculation after Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has become one of the biggest names circulating in trade rumors after requesting a move following last season.
Larkin, who is signed to an eight-year, $69.6 million contract with an annual cap hit of $8.7 million, remains one of the league’s most complete centers. His stock only rose after helping Team USA capture the gold medal at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, where he served as both an emotional leader and a key contributor on the ice.
Experiencing success on the international stage may have strengthened Larkin’s desire to compete for the Stanley Cup during the prime years of his career.
Meanwhile, frustration has continued to grow in Detroit. The Red Wings have now missed the playoffs for 10 consecutive seasons, and despite posting back-to-back 30-goal campaigns, Larkin has been unable to guide the franchise back into contention.
As speculation surrounding Larkin’s future continues to grow, The Athletic’s Max Bultman pointed to Boston as a potential fit. “Boston certainly that team could really benefit and I think he’d be their no. 1 center. They could really benefit from a guy like him next to David (Pastrnak),” Bultman said.
Ever since the retirements of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, Boston has been searching for a game-breaking center, and Larkin would immediately fill that role.
His elite skating, controlled zone entries, and playmaking ability would give superstar winger David Pastrnak the most dynamic center partner he’s had in years.
Larkin developed strong personal ties with Bruins pillars Charlie McAvoy and Jeremy Swayman during their gold-medal Olympic run in Italy. That built-in familiarity makes Boston an enticing landing spot if Larkin exercises his trade movement leverage.
At 30 years old, Larkin also fits neatly into Boston’s current championship window alongside Pastrnak, McAvoy, and Swayman.
Of course, completing a deal of this magnitude would not be easy.
Any trade package would almost certainly involve high draft picks, top prospects, and NHL-ready talent. On top of that, Larkin’s contract includes a full no-movement clause, meaning he would have complete control over where he is willing to go.
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For now, the idea remains speculative. But if Boston is serious about finding its next franchise center, few players on the market would make a bigger impact than Larkin.
