Two of the Detroit Red Wings’ biggest stars, captain Dylan Larkin and leading goal-scorer Alex DeBrincat, have been included on a newly released NHL trade board, adding another layer of intrigue to Detroit’s offseason. While neither player is officially on the trade block, their names have surfaced because of league-wide interest and the uncertainty surrounding the Red Wings’ long-term direction.
Larkin’s inclusion comes after months of speculation about his future. Although he remains the face of the franchise and the team’s captain, Detroit’s 10-year playoff drought has fueled questions about whether general manager Steve Yzerman could eventually consider a dramatic roster shakeup. Multiple league insiders believe rival teams would line up with significant trade offers if the Red Wings ever made Larkin available, but there has been no indication that Detroit is actively shopping him.
DeBrincat’s appearance on the trade board is more surprising. The Michigan native is coming off one of the best seasons of his career, scoring 40 goals and becoming the first Red Wings player to reach that mark since Marian Hossa in 2008-09. His offensive production has made him a cornerstone of Detroit’s attack, but it has also increased his value around the NHL, leading some analysts to speculate that he could command a massive return in a blockbuster deal.
Despite the growing rumors, there is no credible report suggesting the Red Wings are actively trying to move either player. Instead, the trade board reflects which stars around the league would generate the most interest if their teams became willing to negotiate.
Detroit enters the 2026-27 season under increasing pressure after another year without a playoff appearance. Yzerman has already made several roster changes this offseason, including acquiring veteran defenseman Justin Faulk and adding forward Viktor Arvidsson in an effort to strengthen the lineup. Those moves suggest the organization is still trying to compete rather than beginning a full rebuild.
For now, Larkin and DeBrincat remain expected to be central pieces of Detroit’s roster. However, with the NHL offseason still underway, their inclusion on the latest trade board ensures that speculation surrounding both stars is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.
