NHL Rumors: Larkin Missing, Hyman Update, Penguins Trade Plans

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Dylan Larkin’s absence from Detroit Red Wings practice raised questions about his trade status, but the latest update points to something else. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers have placed Zach Hyman on injured reserve after he was injured against Detroit. Finally, the Pittsburgh Penguins could be preparing for a major sell-off.

Red Wings’ Dylan Larkin Takes Maintenance Day Amid Trade Rumors

Dylan Larkin’s absence from Wednesday’s Detroit Red Wings practice sparked speculation about potential trade news. However, Helene St. James reported that the forward was simply taking a maintenance day.

That hasn’t stopped the rumors surrounding Larkin, who hasn’t walked back his trade request and remains interested in a fresh start elsewhere. According to Elliotte Friedman, Larkin and defenseman Simon Edvinsson are both hoping to be moved, with Edvinsson still unsigned to an extension. Larkin has reportedly expanded his trade list to 10 teams.

Friedman believes Detroit is becoming more serious about making a deal rather than holding out for an overwhelming return. Darren Dreger reports that the list of teams interested in Larkin who aren’t on his trade list is probably longer than the list of teams he’s willing to go to. He added that their pro scouting people are continuing to monitor teams that maybe could get in play. Among them are the St. Louis Blues and the Montreal Canadiens.

Oilers Place Zach Hyman on Injured Reserve

The Edmonton Oilers have placed forward Zach Hyman on injured reserve after he suffered an injury during Monday’s game against the Red Wings. Head coach Mike Babcock addressed Hyman’s status before taking questions following Wednesday’s morning skate.

Hyman left the game after taking a hit along the boards from Andreas Englund. The forward appeared to strike the back of his head against the glass, prompting immediate concern that he might have suffered a concussion. He went down slowly, held his visor, and needed help getting off the ice before being ruled out for the rest of the game.

The Oilers have described the injury as a “stiff neck”, and his placement on injured reserve might be as much about making room for Jason Dickinson as it is something serious with Hyman.

Penguins Reportedly Listening to Offers on Veteran Players

The Pittsburgh Penguins could be moving toward a roster sell-off after a lackluster start.

According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, Dubas is fielding calls on several veterans, including Erik Karlsson, Kris Letang, Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell. New ownership reportedly wants the team to get younger, while Dubas must also work within a strict cash budget alongside the salary cap.

Karlsson is an intriguing possibility. The 36-year-old defenseman has been Pittsburgh’s most productive player, but he is a pending unrestricted free agent carrying a $10 million cap hit. His no-movement clause gives him control over any potential deal, and Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos believes a trade could eventually happen.

Rust and Rakell may be more attainable options, although Rust is expected to miss several weeks with a lower-body injury. Rakell has an eight-team no-trade list and has reportedly been available since the summer.

Although Letang is among the veterans reportedly drawing interest, moving him could prove difficult. The 39-year-old defenseman carries a $6.1 million cap hit through next season and has a full no-movement clause, giving him significant control over his future.