A blockbuster trade involving Dylan Larkin would completely change the direction of the Detroit Red Wings, and one Hockey Vice mock trade has sparked plenty of discussion about whether the Panthers could be the perfect landing spot for the longtime Detroit captain.
In the proposed deal, Florida would acquire Larkin from Detroit in exchange for Anton Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen and second-round picks in 2027, 2028 and 2029. It is the type of trade that would immediately shake up both teams and could have major implications for the Eastern Conference.
For Florida, adding Larkin would give the Panthers another proven top-line center to play alongside an already deep group of forwards. Larkin brings speed, experience, offensive ability and leadership, while also having years of experience carrying a major role in Detroit. Putting him into Florida’s lineup could make an already dangerous team even tougher to defend.
The Panthers would also be giving up a significant amount of depth. Lundell is still a valuable young center with plenty of upside, while Luostarinen has become an important two-way forward for Florida. Losing both players would hurt, but acquiring an established player like Larkin could make sense if Florida believes it is close to winning another Stanley Cup.
For Detroit, the return would be much more about rebuilding the team’s overall depth. Lundell could potentially step into a major role down the middle, while Luostarinen would give the Red Wings another versatile forward. The three second-round picks would also give Detroit additional assets to work with as the organization tries to build a stronger future.
The biggest question, however, is what happens to the Red Wings without Larkin. He has been the face of the franchise and one of the team’s most important players for years. Trading the captain would send a massive message that Detroit is willing to make drastic changes rather than continue pushing forward with the current roster.
There is also the emotional side of a potential Larkin trade. Detroit fans have watched him grow from a young prospect into the team’s captain, and seeing him wear another jersey would be difficult. At the same time, if the Red Wings believe they need a major reset, moving Larkin could bring back the kind of package necessary to accelerate that process.
For Florida, this would be a win-now move. For Detroit, it would be a bet on the future.
Whether the Panthers would actually be willing to pay that price is another question, but if Larkin becomes available, expect his name to be connected to plenty of contenders.
Would you make this trade if you were Detroit or Florida?
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