Dylan Larkin Trade Watch: New Report Casts Doubt on Potential Move to Montreal

Despite growing speculation connecting the former Red Wings captain to the Canadiens, new reporting suggests Montreal remains an unlikely destination.

DETROIT, Mich. — October 19, 2026 — Speculation surrounding Dylan Larkin’s future with the Detroit Red Wings continues to intensify, but one potential trade destination may already be off the table.

According to a Monday report from veteran Red Wings reporter Bob Duff of Detroit Hockey Now, sources connected to both Larkin and the organization indicate that a trade to the Montreal Canadiens is unlikely under the current circumstances.

The report comes as Detroit continues navigating the uncertain future of its former captain, who requested a trade following the 2025–26 season.

Although Montreal has been mentioned in trade discussions, Larkin’s contractual protections could prevent a deal from materializing.

Why Montreal May Not Be an Option

Larkin’s contract includes a no-movement clause, giving him significant control over potential trade destinations.

While reports indicate that the 30-year-old center has expanded his list of acceptable teams, Montreal reportedly remains outside that group.

NHL insider Darren Dreger recently discussed the possibility of a Canadiens trade, suggesting that Montreal could potentially assemble an attractive package involving prospects, a first-round draft pick and an established NHL player.

However, any potential agreement would still require Larkin’s approval.

Without that approval, the Red Wings cannot simply send him to Montreal.

That makes the latest reporting particularly significant.

Even if the Canadiens are interested and willing to offer Detroit an attractive return, the player’s contractual rights remain a major obstacle.

Larkin’s Trade Request Remains Unresolved

Larkin’s situation has been one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Red Wings since the offseason.

The longtime Detroit center requested a trade after another disappointing season for the organization.

The request created uncertainty about the franchise’s direction and raised questions about how Detroit would approach its next phase.

Larkin has remained with the Red Wings to begin the 2026–27 season, but his long-term future is still unresolved.

Detroit faces a difficult decision.

The organization must determine whether moving one of its most established players would provide the assets necessary to strengthen its future or whether retaining him remains the better option.

Injury Complicates Larkin’s Start to the Season

The ongoing trade speculation isn’t the only challenge facing Larkin.

The veteran center missed training camp, the preseason and Detroit’s first two regular-season games while recovering from an upper-body injury suffered during an offseason workout.

Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan recently acknowledged that Larkin is still working toward regaining his skating rhythm and conditioning.

Detroit’s use of 11 forwards and seven defensemen has also increased the workload for some players, making Larkin’s return particularly demanding.

The circumstances have created a difficult start to the season for a player already dealing with uncertainty surrounding his future.

Despite those challenges, Larkin has continued competing for Detroit while the organization evaluates its options.

What’s Next for Detroit?

The Red Wings have several questions to answer as they attempt to reshape the franchise.

Larkin remains one of the organization’s most recognizable players, and any potential trade would represent a major turning point.

Detroit would likely seek a substantial return in exchange for a center with Larkin’s experience and offensive ability.

But finding the right trade partner involves more than identifying an interested team.

The Red Wings must balance the potential return, Larkin’s contract, his preferred destinations and the organization’s long-term plans.

For now, Montreal appears unlikely to be the answer.

The Bottom Line

Dylan Larkin’s future in Detroit remains uncertain, but speculation should not be confused with a completed transaction.

The latest reporting suggests that Montreal is not currently an acceptable destination for the former Red Wings captain.

That could change if Larkin adjusts his position, but there is no confirmed indication that he intends to do so.

Until Detroit announces a deal or credible reporting establishes a meaningful change, Larkin remains a member of the Red Wings.

And the questions surrounding his future will continue.

Motor City Sports Network | Detroit Sports Coverage

Reporting attribution: Bob Duff, Detroit Hockey Now, October 19, 2026. Additional background from the Detroit Red Wings’ official statements regarding Larkin’s trade request.