Looking at the group of free agents available come July 1, there aren’t many names that could help the NY Islanders in their search for a big-time forward to assist in solving their goal-scoring issues. The more likely route is through a trade, and now that it has been reported that Dylan Larkin has requested a trade from the Detroit Red Wings, Mathieu Darche will be doing his due diligence on the Gold Medal recipient. But at what cost?
Dylan Larkin has requested a trade
Larkin put up a career-high 34 goals this season and has scored 30+ in each of the last five seasons, making him that ideal acquisition for the Islanders. But players like him don’t come cheaply. While scouring the trade market at the deadline, one of Darche’s goals was to retain his top prospects. In a deal for Larkin, Steve Yzerman would insist on the inclusion of Cal Ritchie, Victor Eklund, or Kashawn Aitcheson, plus more.
Do the Islanders have the pieces to get a deal done? Likely, yes. But does Darche want to deplete his prospect pool that he’s helped rebuild in one season? No.
In this situation, Larkin holds all the leverage. The Michigan native signed an 8-year extension in 2023, with a no-movement clause through the 2027-28 season. Larkin has the final say on where he’ll ultimately land, and as we’ve seen with players owning NMC’s, it can severely drive the price down. Earning a reasonable $8.7M AAV, the Islanders could fit him under the cap after a few moves, including moving on from Anders Lee.
Perhaps playing with Matthew Schaefer, Mat Barzal, and an elite goaltender between the pipes is something Larkin is interested in.
In all likelihood, Larkin doesn’t land on Long Island, but Darche will inquire as to the cost and take it from there.
