Dylan Larkin's trade market is expanding as Todd McLellan faces the possibility of opening camp without Detroit's captain.
Jeff Marek and Max Bultman identified Montreal, Boston and Philadelphia as logical landing spots during a discussion on The Sheet.
Those clubs haven't been confirmed as active bidders. The conversation focused on teams where Larkin's speed, leadership and top-six role could make sense.
Montreal carries the clearest roster need. The Canadiens have Nick Suzuki leading the middle, but still lack a settled second-line center behind him.
Larkin would give Martin St-Louis another proven option capable of driving a scoring line and reducing the matchup pressure placed on Suzuki.
Boston also fits because dependable centers remain difficult to acquire. Marco Sturm could immediately place Larkin in a major role with offensive and special-teams responsibility.
" The Sheet (July 31): Jeff Marek and Max Bultman discuss possible fits for Dylan Larkin. They name Montreal, Boston and Philadelphia as good landing spots.
Marek wonders if a Seattle could work since they have the picks and prospects but Bultman doesn't think so, says it would be a tough sell for Larkin. "
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Dylan Larkin drawing interest from surprising new trade contenders
The Flyers would present a different kind of opportunity. Rick Tocchet's lineup could use more established talent through the middle as Philadelphia pushes its young group forward.
Larkin's arrival would raise expectations immediately, but Detroit would demand a strong return from a Metropolitan Division club with useful young assets.
Seattle was also mentioned because the Kraken hold picks and prospects that could interest the Red Wings. On paper, Jason Botterill has enough pieces to build a serious package.
Bultman questioned whether Seattle would appeal to Larkin. That matters because the center's contract protection gives him control over which trade possibilities can become real.
A Kraken offer may satisfy Detroit without satisfying the player. Larkin could prefer an Eastern contender or a market offering a clearer route to immediate playoff hockey.
The Canadiens, Bruins and Flyers would face the same problem from the other side. Detroit can't replace its captain with a routine package built around distant futures.
Any deal likely requires immediate NHL help, premium young talent or both. The Red Wings still need someone capable of carrying major minutes through the middle.
Montreal has the strongest positional need, Boston offers a familiar Original Six stage, and Philadelphia could sell Larkin on becoming a central piece. Seattle holds assets, but may face the hardest recruitment job.
Would Dylan Larkin accept a trade to the Montreal Canadiens?
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