Chris Osgood Weighs in on Dylan Larkin’s Trade Request from Red Wings

The NHL landscape is buzzing as the 2026 Draft approaches, but the spotlight is firmly on Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin and the surprising news of his trade request. Just months after expressing his commitment to the team and a desire to capture the Stanley Cup, Larkin’s intentions have shifted, raising eyebrows across the league.

Reports from NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that Larkin had put forth a short list of three teams he would consider for a trade. However, recent developments suggest that his representation is open to broadening this list, adding a layer of complexity to an already tense situation.

Former Red Wings star Darren McCarty has voiced his disappointment, suggesting that Larkin is turning his back on the franchise that drafted him 15th overall in 2014. Joining the conversation, Chris Osgood, a four-time Stanley Cup champion with Detroit, shared his thoughts on the “Ozzy and Keats” podcast, expressing his surprise at Larkin’s decision.

“That’s tough, it’s real tough,” Osgood remarked, acknowledging the challenging nature of the situation. He noted that Larkin’s agent has identified Vegas, Florida, and Minnesota as potential destinations, but emphasized the difficulty for General Manager Steve Yzerman, who has navigated similar scenarios in the past with players like Martin St. Louis and Jonathan Drouin.

Osgood recalled Yzerman’s strategic approach during his tenure with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he traded St. Louis to the New York Rangers and took a patient route with Drouin before dealing him to Montreal. “It’s one thing to make the request, but in the end, it’s Steve’s job to make sure the Wings get what they expect back in a deal,” he said, offering insight into the balancing act Yzerman faces.

As speculation mounts about a potential deal during the upcoming NHL Draft, Osgood believes the process may take time. “I just don’t see a path with any of those teams,” he stated, highlighting the tough spot the Red Wings find themselves in. Ultimately, Yzerman may decide to hold onto Larkin if he does not receive an offer that meets his expectations.

As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the Red Wings and their captain, with fans eager to see how this trade request will impact the team’s future.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.