SerpApi.Org
Trade speculation surrounding Connor Hellebuyck and Dylan Larkin has intensified throughout the NHL offseason, but the timelines for each player appear to be very different. Speaking on TSN Radio, NHL insider Anthony Di Marco suggested that Hellebuyck is the more likely candidate to be dealt first, while Larkin's future has become increasingly complicated.
Di Marco believes recent changes within the Detroit Red Wings organization have altered the situation surrounding Larkin. Following Steve Yzerman's departure from his leadership role, the Red Wings may be hoping the front-office transition helps repair the relationship with their longtime captain or, at the very least, creates a smoother path toward a resolution.
The insider also questioned Detroit's reported asking price in previous trade discussions. According to Di Marco, the Red Wings were seeking elite young talent such as Wyatt Johnston from the Dallas Stars or Matt Boldy from the Minnesota Wild in exchange for Larkin—an asking price he described as unrealistic given the forward's age and current market value.
Because of those circumstances, Di Marco expects the Larkin situation to extend well into the season unless Detroit significantly lowers its demands. Rather than rushing into a trade, the organization could wait to see how negotiations evolve under its new management structure.
Hellebuyck's situation appears much more straightforward. Buffalo has repeatedly been mentioned as a potential destination for the former Vezina Trophy winner, with reports indicating the star goaltender would be willing to waive his no-movement clause for a move to the Sabres if the right deal materializes.
Di Marco added that Buffalo could have been in an ideal position to acquire Hellebuyck around the NHL Draft after obtaining the fourth overall pick from the Chicago Blackhawks in the Bowen Byram trade. Although no deal was completed, many around the league still view the Sabres as one of the strongest candidates to land the All-Star netminder.
With training camp approaching, Hellebuyck appears to be the player most likely to change teams before the regular season begins. Larkin's future, meanwhile, remains clouded by Detroit's organizational changes and the high asking price that has so far prevented serious trade negotiations from advancing.
As the NHL offseason enters its final stretch, both stars will continue generating headlines. However, if one blockbuster trade happens first, league insiders believe Connor Hellebuyck is considerably more likely than Dylan Larkin to be wearing a new sweater before opening night.
