Dallas Stars could swap their $7.75m star for Red Wings captain: Report

Dylan Larkin #71 of the Detroit Red Wings follows the play in front of Jason Robertson #21 of the Dallas Stars during the second period at Little Caesars Arena on December 23, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Dave Reginek/NHLI via Getty Images)

The Dallas Stars and Detroit Red Wings are at the heart of one of the biggest trade stories of the NHL offseason. Dallas could look to move restricted free agent winger Jason Robertson, reports have suggested, while Detroit continues to evaluate the future of captain Dylan Larkin after reports that he asked for a trade earlier this summer.There is no deal yet, but speculation has increased because both players are still in situations that could affect their respective franchises before training camp starts. The potential for a blockbuster trade has also started a conversation around the league as front offices continue to evaluate the deals of the offseason.

Jason Robertson for Dylan Larkin blockbuster gains momentum between Dallas Stars and Detroit Red Wings

A potential Jason Robertson-for-Dylan Larkin trade would answer big questions on the roster for both teams, but there are still some hurdles to clear before that could happen.Robertson, who just finished his deal with the Dallas Stars, is a restricted free agent. Reports suggest the two sides don’t have a long-term extension agreement in place, leading to speculation the Stars may trade him rather than risk further uncertainty.The 26-year-old has become one of the NHL’s most reliable offensive contributors, which makes him a desirable target for clubs looking for top-end scoring. But Dallas also has to balance the commitments it has made against the salary cap, while maintaining a roster good enough to compete for the Stanley Cup.

CategoryDetailsPlayer 1Jason RobertsonCurrent TeamDallas StarsPositionLeft WingShootsLeftHeight6 ft 3 in (191 cm)NationalityAmericanBirthplaceArcadia, California, United StatesAgeBorn on July 22, 1999Draft InformationSelected 39th overall in the second round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft by the Dallas Stars.Contract StatusRestricted free agent after completing a four-year contract carrying a $7.75 million AAV; currently awaiting a new deal following salary arbitration filing.2026 Offseason SituationOngoing contract negotiations have fueled speculation that Dallas could consider trade options if a long-term agreement cannot be reached.StrengthsElite goal scorer with high-end finishing ability, puck control, offensive awareness, and consistent point production.Why Teams Are InterestedOne of the NHL's premier young offensive forwards entering his prime, making him a valuable long-term asset.Reported Trade InterestPittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings have been linked through various offseason reports, although no trade has been confirmed.Potential Role for Acquiring TeamExpected to play a first-line scoring role and contribute significantly on the power play.Player 2Dylan LarkinCurrent TeamDetroit Red WingsPositionCenterShootsLeftHeight6 ft 1 in (185 cm)NationalityAmericanBirthplaceWaterford, Michigan, United StatesAgeBorn on July 30, 1996Draft InformationSelected 15th overall in the first round of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings.Contract StatusSigned through the 2030-31 NHL season on an eight-year contract worth $69.6 million ($8.7 million AAV).2026 Offseason SituationReports have indicated Larkin requested a trade, though Detroit has not publicly committed to moving its captain.Leadership RoleCaptain of the Detroit Red Wings and one of the club's top two-way centers.Reported Preferred DestinationsReports have linked Dallas Stars among teams Larkin would reportedly consider if traded.Rumored Trade FrameworkMultiple reports have connected Robertson and Larkin in a potential blockbuster, with some insiders also suggesting a three-team structure involving the Pittsburgh Penguins.Biggest ObstacleDetroit is reportedly seeking a significant return, while Dallas has been reluctant to move additional core young assets.Current StatusNo trade has been agreed upon. Discussions remain speculative, making this one of the NHL's most closely monitored offseason trade rumors.

Why Dylan Larkin Remains a Trade Target

Dylan Larkin is signed with the Detroit Red Wings, but there were reports earlier this offseason that he requested a trade. Detroit general manager Steve Yzerman has shown no urgency to get a deal done, but Larkin’s reported willingness to play in Dallas has fueled speculation around the Stars.Detroit's captain, solid two-way center Larkin, would be an important piece for Dallas if negotiations ever get beyond the rumor stage.

Could another NHL team become involved?

League sources have also discussed the possibility of a three-team framework, rather than a straight one-for-one trade. There have been rumors that the Pittsburgh Penguins could get involved if Dallas and Detroit have trouble finding trade value, as the Penguins have been linked with Jason Robertson interest on a few occasions.There have been reports Detroit may want more than just Robertson in return and Dallas reportedly has been reluctant to include other core young players in talks. A multi-team deal could help each club address its priorities, if talks heat up.