Every time news about the Detroit Red Wings comes from an outside source, skepticism is (rightfully) heaped upon that reporter. Whether it's Paul Bissonnette completely missing the mark on the Red Wings or Bob Duff releasing a report only for it to be contradicted an hour later, it seems like no one has the full story on the Red Wings this season.
This time around, another national media figure has chosen to enter the ring: ESPN analyst John Buccigross.
Stopping by fellow insider Frank Seravalli's Frankly Hockey podcast, Buccigross shared a tidbit he picked up regarding disgruntled ex-captain Dylan Larkin and his pending trade request.
"I think there's going be a trade within seven to ten days in Detroit," Buccigross began. "I got a little bit of information last night which tells me that we're going to see a trade."
Cutting him off, Seravalli asks if it's Larkin, to which Buccigross confirms. "Yeah, Larkin."
Take all information with a grain of salt
Buccigross has never reliably shared any information regarding the Red Wings. This isn't to say he's been able to land scoops before -- in fact, he's done it with the Anaheim Ducks a number of times. It's more of a reminder of how tight-lipped the Red Wings are as an organization. Very little escapes the walls of Hockeytown, and, more often than not, that information is disproven, like the supposed three team trade list of Larkin's.
What's especially unusual about the framing of this insider statement is the seven to ten days timeframe. Is this a matter of paperwork? Checking in on prospects? It's hard to say. A timeframe that long offers opportunities for each party to back out. This could be the Red Wings doing due dilligence on the potential returns -- or it could be covering all their bases in the event they're ready to move forward with the trade.
It could even be a timeframe for Red Wings CEO and owner Chris Ilitch to review all the possible outcomes of the aforementioned trade.
No matter where you land, it's just unclear whether or not Buccigross is a reliable source on this one.
A quick Larkin trade ideal for both parties
Ever since his first game back in Detroit, Larkin has looked borderline unplayable. He floats around the rink, barely putting in effort and coughing up the puck at every opportunity. It would be infuriating if it wasn't so unsurprising. Some speculate that Larkin is playing poorly in order to tank his trade value and help out his future team. Others believe that he's still recovering from his injury but would prefer to play for his team.
There are even some who believe it's a mental thing. Perhaps all three are true. Either way, at this point, it's best for both parties to move on. Hopefully then we can put to rest insiders repeatedly wondering if both parties will reconcile.
Whether it's in a week, ten days or longer, there will come a time when Larkin no longer wears the Winged Wheel. But that decision isn't up to Buccigross, Seravalli or any of us. It's up to two (or more) teams and Larkin to get the deal done.
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