Detroit Red Wings
2026-06-20
The Detroit Red Wings' offseason has taken a dramatic turn with Dylan Larkin's trade request, potentially altering their approach to the 2026 NHL Draft. Just two weeks ago, the draft seemed insignificant for the Red Wings, but now they may find themselves with a first-round pick. General manager Steve Yzerman will be watching the draft closely, particularly if the Red Wings can acquire a pick in the top 10. The Florida Panthers, one of the reported teams on Larkin's trade list, hold the No. 9 pick, while the New Jersey Devils have the 12th pick. And then there's the Utah Mammoth, with the 19th pick, who could be an ideal trade partner for Detroit. The Red Wings have a glaring hole at the No. 1 center position, and drafting a top center like Viggo Björck could be a key move. Björck, a Swedish pivot, has been ranked as the best center in the class by Corey Pronman, but his size, at 5 feet 9 inches, could be an issue. Despite this, Björck has taken major minutes against men all year, including playing on the first line for Sweden at the World Championship. He's smart, a good skater, and competes hard - all the things that a smaller player needs to do to succeed. The Red Wings have used top-10 picks on centers Marco Kasper and Nate Danielson in recent years, but neither projects as a true No. 1 center. Kasper has shown his impact at his best, and Danielson has natural skill and playmaking ability, but the Red Wings need a top center to fill the void left by Larkin. With the draft just around the corner, the Red Wings will be watching the top prospects closely, hoping to find the right player to fill their needs. The Red Wings' draft strategy will depend on what happens with Larkin's trade, but one thing is certain - they need to find a way to fill the hole at the No. 1 center position. And with the right pick, they could find themselves back in contention sooner rather than later. The 2026 NHL Draft is set to take place on June 26, and the Red Wings will be ready to make their move.