Red Wings Sit Larkin With $8.7 Million Cap Hit Amid Trade Push

Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin is missing Thursday's game against the Chicago Blackhawks for trade-related reasons, according to league sources. The move signals that the Red Wings intend to keep their star player out of action to strengthen their hand in ongoing negotiations.

Coach Todd McLellan informed reporters that Larkin would not start in Detroit. Larkin skipped morning practice after taking a maintenance day on Wednesday. Interim general manager Shawn Horcoff is scheduled to speak about the situation later in the day.

The contract at the center of the dispute is an eight-year, $69.6 million deal. The average annual value is $8.7 million against the salary cap. Larkin is in the fourth season of that agreement and holds a no-trade clause. His presence on the roster represents a major financial commitment for Detroit.

Larkin requested a trade in June. His representatives have pressed the Red Wings to finalize a deal. Sources indicate multiple teams are currently involved. The Minnesota Wild is described as the most aggressive suitor. Larkin has expanded his list of acceptable destinations to 10 teams. He initially approved trades to the Wild, Florida Panthers, and Vegas Golden Knights. He has since added the Carolina Hurricanes, Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, New Jersey Devils, Tampa Bay Lightning, Utah Mammoth, and Washington Capitals to that list.

A source noted that Larkin is not seeking a move to a Canadian team, despite fan demand in Montreal. The center has played his entire NHL career in Detroit. The Red Wings selected him 15th overall in 2014. He currently ranks 10th in franchise history with 649 points.

Larkin returned to the ice on Oct. 6 after reporting to training camp. He was stripped of the team captaincy upon his return. In 10 games this season, he has recorded two goals and four assists. He averages 21 minutes and 41 seconds of ice time per game. The Red Wings hold a 5-4-3 record.