The Daily: Does Hellebuyck Trade Kill Possible Larkin Deal?; Buium Scoring is Up

Kevin Allen writes that the New Jersey Devils' blockbuster acquisition of goaltender Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets complicates a potential trade for Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin. The Devils sent a substantial package including Dawson Mercer, Alexander Command, Nico Daws, Nick Bjugstad, and two draft picks to Winnipeg. Because Larkin has requested a trade and New Jersey was an interested suitor, the trade significantly depletes the assets the Devils have available.

Allen notes that the Red Wings seek a package similar to what Winnipeg received, specifically wanting a first-round pick alongside young talent rather than a goaltender. Elsewhere in the organization, Detroit's AHL affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, lost 3-2 to the Cleveland Monsters despite defenseman prospect Shai Buium recording an assist to reach six points in nine games.