The Detroit Red Wings are once again facing major questions about their future as speculation builds around captain Dylan Larkin. Another year without playoff hockey has intensified scrutiny on the organization, while rival teams are monitoring developments closely for any sign that a franchise-altering move could be on the horizon.
As interest across the league continues to grow, a respected Pittsburgh insider recently weighed in on whether the Penguins could emerge as a serious player in the discussion.
Penguins Insider Weighs PIT’s Chances in Dylan Larkin Sweepstakes
Larkin has become one of the NHL’s most discussed trade targets following reports that he wants a change of scenery after more than a decade with the Red Wings. While several teams are monitoring the situation, the Pittsburgh Penguins continue to surface as a team worth watching closely.
In a recent column for The Athletic, Penguins insider Josh Yohe explained why Pittsburgh could be a logical destination if Detroit seriously explores a deal. Yohe wrote, “The Penguins are looking for an impactful forward, preferably a young one. They have an enormous amount of cap space. They have Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, veteran forwards who might well be appealing to the Red Wings. They have draft picks and prospects to offer, too.”
Yohe also noted that while Larkin is approaching 30, he still fits what general manager Kyle Dubas is trying to build. “Larkin isn’t a youngster, but I still think he makes a lot of sense for the Penguins. I’d be surprised if Kyle Dubas doesn’t inquire,” he added.
The fit is understandable from Pittsburgh’s perspective. The organization has been searching for a high-end center who can complement Sidney Crosby while helping bridge the gap between the veteran core and the next generation.
With Evgeni Malkin spending more time on the wing, Pittsburgh lacks a proven second-line center capable of handling major defensive and offensive responsibilities.
Larkin would address that need immediately. He finished the 2025-26 season with 34 goals and 67 points in 74 games despite missing time because of a late-season injury. His ability to contribute in all situations, including the penalty kill, would give the Penguins another reliable two-way presence behind Crosby.
However, Pittsburgh is far from alone in retaining an interest in the Team USA veteran.
The Montreal Canadiens and Minnesota Wild remain heavily linked to the Detroit captain. Montreal views him as a potential solution behind Nick Suzuki, while Minnesota sees him as an ideal partner for Kirill Kaprizov.
Each team brings different strengths to the table. The Canadiens possess a deep prospect pool and young NHL talent, though any deal with a division rival could force Detroit to demand a premium return.
The Wild offer a competitive environment and a connection through Team USA and general manager Bill Guerin, but salary cap limitations could complicate negotiations.
Larkin’s contract also gives him significant control over the process. His full no-trade clause runs for the next two seasons, meaning any transaction will require his approval.
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For now, Pittsburgh remains one of several serious contenders. Whether the Penguins can outbid Montreal and Minnesota is another question, but Yohe’s assessment makes one thing clear: if Larkin becomes available, Dubas is expected to be among the general managers making the call.
