ESPN Predicts Larkin Stays in Detroit, Panthers Reclaim Cup

ESPN's preseason predictions for all 32 NHL teams include Dylan Larkin playing the full season in Detroit and the Florida Panthers winning the Stanley Cup for the third time in four years. Both are forecasts, not reported outcomes.

Larkin requested a trade after last season and is no longer the Red Wings' captain. He declined to discuss the details of his request when he addressed reporters at training camp. ESPN's prediction is that neither Larkin's approved list nor Detroit's asking price changes enough to produce a trade, leaving the center with the Red Wings through the season.

Florida's prediction comes after two straight championships in 2024 and 2025 followed by a missed postseason in 2026. The Panthers enter this season with Jacob Markstrom in goal after Sergei Bobrovsky signed with Toronto. Florida acquired Markstrom from New Jersey in a deal that sent Evan Rodrigues, Jesper Boqvist and Ben Steeves to the Devils.

The Panthers also added Brady Tkachuk from Ottawa during the offseason. ESPN argues that Florida's depth across its top three forward lines and top two defense pairs can overcome the change in goal and put the club back on top.