The Minnesota Wild let the NHL know they were looking to make another splash this offseason, months after acquiring star defenseman Quinn Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks. The team was expected to prioritize securing a No. 1 center this offseason. The options were rather limited, until Dylan Larkin requested a trade from the Detroit Red Wings.
Minnesota lucked out that they were one of the three teams that Larkin would accept a trade to. They would have to make an offer that surpasses what the Vegas Golden Knights, Florida Panthers, or other potential suitors could make. As it turns out, the Wild were also looking to make another big move as they were waiting on some more clarity from Larkin and the Red Wings.
On Sunday, multiple reports indicated that the Panthers acquired forward Brady Tkachuk from the Ottawa Senators in exchange for three first-round picks (two in 2026, one in 2029) and a 2030 second-round pick. It was a true blockbuster for the Panthers, who look like legitimate Stanley Cup favorites entering next season.
As it turns out, the Wild were in the mix. Not only were they one of the four teams on Tkachuk's wishlist, but The Athletic's Michael Russo reported that they "made a huge offer" for him. Ultimately, Tkachuck picked the Panthers over all.
Now, the clock is ticking for the Wild to try and get something done for Larkin
Dylan Larkin must be Wild's top priority after striking out on Brady Tkachuk
If a player like Tkachuk hits the trade market, he does carry a priority over Larkin. The Wild tried to get something done, but it sounded like Brady prioritized teaming up with his older brother Matthew in Florida. After this trade, the Panthers don't have a first-round pick until 2030. Add that to their cap space and need for goaltending, you can probably rule Florida out for Larkin.
For the Wild and general manager Bill Guerin, they should pivot their focus to getting Larkin. Sure, you don't want to give up as much as they offered for Tkachuk, but they should be more aggressive in getting Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman to approve of a trade. Even though Larkin does have the full no-movement clause, Yzerman will only trade him if he gets a strong enough offer.
The expectation of a potential trade, as hinted by Sportsnet NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, could include Danila Yurov, Charlie Stramel, and potentially more. Were the Wild offering a similar package to the Senators for Tkachuk? We don't know.
Given the lack of quality center options in free agency, and with Vincent Trocheck of the New York Rangers being the only other top center available on the trade block, there aren't many better targets than Larkin. With free agency rapidly approaching next week (July 1), you'd have to imagine the Red Wings would like to get something done for Larkin so they can build out their roster for next season.
With the Panthers seemingly out of the running for Larkin, it's time for the Wild to strike.
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