NHL Trade Rumors: Dach Draws Major Interest from Oilers and Flames, Salary Cap Set for Surge, and Larkin’s Destination List Widens

In today’s NHL rumors roundup, forward Kirby Dach finds his future with the Montreal Canadiens increasingly uncertain, drawing attention from both the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames. Concurrently, the league’s salary cap is projected to experience an unprecedented surge, fundamentally altering the financial framework for franchises and star players alike. Additionally, the roster of potential destinations for Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin is reportedly much broader than initially believed, providing the Red Wings with expanded trade possibilities.

Oilers and Flames Keep Close Watch on Kirby Dach

Kirby Dach is striving to secure a consistent roster position with the Montreal Canadiens, yet speculation persists that the forward may be traded. Competing against younger prospects for a spot, Dach’s injury history and $3.6 million cap hit have raised questions about his long-term fit in Montreal, prompting the franchise to explore trade options.

According to Frank Seravalli, the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames have been closely tracking Dach’s situation, with multiple franchises reportedly offering a second-round pick to acquire him. Montreal has maintained a higher asking price, though this valuation could decrease should they become involved in the Kirill Marchenko trade negotiations.

Seravalli notes, “The interest in Edmonton borders on drooling; the Oilers are intent on acquiring Dach at some point, whether that’s before the season starts, at the March 1 trade deadline, or next summer as a free agent.” Beyond the allure of reuniting Dach with his brother, General Manager Stan Bowman holds a strong interest in the player, having originally drafted him during his tenure with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Regarding Calgary, analysts note, “The Flames are in desperate search for a No. 1 center — and since those guys don’t grow on trees, Dach is the next best option, to play in concert with someone like Morgan Frost.”

NHL Salary Cap Projected to Surge by 2028-29

The NHL salary cap is poised for another significant increase. Elliotte Friedman reports that the league’s preliminary estimate for the 2028-29 salary cap sits at approximately $127.5 million. This represents a substantial leap from the current $104 million ceiling and the anticipated $113.5 million cap for the 2027-28 season.

This projected growth is largely driven by escalating league revenues, with Commissioner Gary Bettman indicating that NHL revenue projections for the upcoming season are approximately $8.1 billion in mixed currency. A rapidly rising cap could afford greater financial flexibility to teams that have heavily invested in young stars, such as Anaheim and San Jose, while simultaneously posing challenges for clubs struggling to meet the salary-cap floor.

This shift could also fundamentally reshape future contracts for the league’s elite players. A $25 million per season contract for Connor McDavid now appears entirely plausible.

Dylan Larkin’s Trade Destination List Reportedly Much Larger

The situation surrounding Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin may be shifting as well. With five years remaining on his contract at an $8.7 million annual cap hit, trade discussions have been complicated by his previously perceived limited list of preferred destinations.

That list was originally thought to include the Minnesota Wild, Florida Panthers, and Vegas Golden Knights. However, Friedman suggested on the latest 32 Thoughts Podcast that the list is actually significantly longer.

Friedman identified Colorado, Washington, Dallas, and Tampa Bay as potential additions, suggesting the total number of destinations could reach around eight. He also noted that Larkin’s list remains restricted to U.S. teams and includes clubs that he believes have a strong chance of contending for the Stanley Cup.

Whether this expanded list alters Detroit’s trade approach remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly provides the Red Wings with more potential avenues to explore a Larkin trade.

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