An Uncertain Start in Detroit
The Detroit Red Wings entered their 2026 training camp facing significant internal turbulence, a situation now compounded by an injury to their star center and former captain, Dylan Larkin. Interim General Manager Shawn Horcoff confirmed on September 16, 2026, that Larkin sustained an upper-body injury during off-ice training earlier in the week and will not participate in on-ice sessions as the team begins its preseason preparation, as reported by The Athletic.
The underlying reporting is available from The New York Times.
Horcoff noted that while Larkin will remain with the team to undergo rehabilitation, there is no definitive timeline for his return to full participation. The organization stated they are hopeful he may be able to skate before the end of camp, but his absence from the opening sessions creates a significant void in the lineup.
Trade Rumors and Leadership Shifts
Larkin’s injury arrives at a delicate moment for the franchise. The veteran forward requested a trade early this past June, and the team recently announced that he would vacate the captaincy for the 2026-27 season. These developments have fueled persistent speculation regarding his long-term future in Detroit. Despite the ongoing trade rumors, Horcoff emphasized during his first news conference as interim GM that the team remains focused on Larkin’s recovery, stating, “We’re a better team with Dylan Larkin in our lineup.”
The interim GM also addressed concerns about his own authority to navigate these issues. Horcoff confirmed that he possesses full decision-making power regarding hockey operations, including potential trade discussions, though he declined to comment publicly on the specifics of his conversations with Larkin, citing privacy.
Roster Stability and Future Priorities
Beyond the Larkin situation, the Red Wings are managing several high-stakes contract negotiations. Notably, restricted free agent defenseman Simon Edvinsson has yet to sign a new deal. While the deadline for an eight-year extension passed on September 16, 2026, due to the new collective bargaining agreement, the team is prioritizing his signing to ensure he remains available for the season opener on October 2, according to The Athletic. Additionally, the team aims to reach an extension with leading scorer Alex DeBrincat, whose current contract runs through the 2026-27 season.
Horcoff rejected the notion of a full-scale rebuild, insisting that the roster possesses enough talent to compete for a playoff spot. However, the combination of Larkin’s injury, his public trade request, and the team’s ongoing leadership transition leaves the Red Wings facing a precarious opening to their season. The team’s ability to stabilize these core issues will likely determine the trajectory of their campaign as they look to move past recent seasons of coming up just short of postseason contention.