Though many fans and media members alike have wondered if the Arizona Coyotes, after another disappointing season where they won just 30 games, would trade their best player and supremely talented defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson, one insider has been told no chance. Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet has inquired on whether or not Ekman-Larsson would be available this summer, and was told “no.” As we’ve seen before this doesn’t completely close the door—just ask P.K. Subban—but it does indicate that the Coyotes are looking to compete sooner rather than later. 
Ekman-Larsson has just two seasons left on his current deal before potentially hitting the open market as a 27-year old in 2019. Currently earning just $5.5MM per season, he would certainly command a much bigger salary and likely be one of the top names on the open market (depending on what happens with Erik Karlsson and others). If the Coyotes don’t believe they can re-sign him long-term, moving him isn’t out of the question over the next few seasons. If the young group that GM John Chayka and his front office have built can mesh quickly, they could show that the future is bright with Ekman-Larsson manning the blue line for years to come. If Shane Doan does retire, the Swedish defender would likely be up for the captain’s “C” as well.
The Coyotes, likely in an attempt to sway Ekman-Larsson’s decision, recently signed his brother Kevin Ekman-Larsson out of the Swedish Allsvenskan. The younger brother is smaller and less talented than his NHL sibling, and thus has signed just an AHL contract to play with the Tucson Roadrunners next year. Trading OEL just months later seems entirely out of the question.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images
I’d love to see the Stars still pursue him. They have the assets and could offer a good deal, it sounds like it will take a monster haul to get him though.o
Friedman did mention it in response to a Stars article, and said that Dallas would probably still make a call. Maybe you’ll get your wish dug!