A hostile homecoming fuels rumors of the captain’s exit as Washington weighs a blockbuster swap for Dylan Strome to bolster Alex Ovechkin’s final Stanley Cup charge.
On Friday night, Dylan Larkin got an icy welcome back to Hockeytown as the former Detroit Red Wings captain was booed by his hometown crowd, and the reaction has revived speculation about his future in Detroit.
The jeers were a jarring moment for the Michigan native, who spent years as one of the franchise's most beloved players. Many fans now believe the treatment will only strengthen any desire the 30-year-old center has to leave.
The timing is notable as more than a week ago, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported that Larkin's trade list is larger than originally believed and includes the Washington Capitals.
Washington has been aggressive this season, making major moves as it pursues one more Stanley Cup run with franchise legend Alex Ovechkin. Adding Larkin would fit that approach, and the Capitals are one of the few teams with a package that could work for Detroit.
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One proposed return centers on 29-year-old, top-six center Dylan Strome, who has developed into a 60- to 80-point producer, and would be a younger option for the Wings. Placed on the right line in Detroit, alongside star talents like Lucas Raymond and Alex DeBrincat, Strome would be a viable replacement for Larkin.
The deal could also benefit Washington as Larkin would give the Capitals a subtle upgrade, with the ability to slot into several roles on the penalty kill and the power play. A move would give him a sooner chance to win, and Washington is close enough that he would not be far from his family in Michigan.
The Capitals scenario remains speculation driven by fans and by Friedman's report on Larkin's expanded list. But after Friday's reception, the questions around his future in Detroit are unlikely to go away.
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