Dylan Larkin Out Against Blackhawks as Red Wings Await Update

Dylan Larkin will not play for the Detroit Red Wings against the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday, coach Todd McLellan said. Interim general manager Shawn Horcoff is expected to address the situation later in the day.

The game is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Detroit’s announcement establishes Larkin’s absence from the lineup without resolving the larger question surrounding his future with the organization.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that Larkin plans to remain out until a trade is completed. That account describes a reported player position; the Red Wings had not announced a completed trade in the reporting available Thursday afternoon.

Larkin requested a trade during the summer and was removed as captain September 11. Recent reporting has also described an expanded list of potential destinations, adding another development to a dispute that has extended into the regular season.

Horcoff is handling the matter as interim general manager. Detroit removed Steve Yzerman from the position in July, and the organization’s search for permanent leadership remains part of the background to the negotiations.

Larkin, 30, has two goals and four assists in 10 games this season. He missed preseason action and the opening two regular-season games with an upper-body injury, but that earlier absence does not establish the reason for Thursday’s decision.

The center has five seasons remaining on the eight-year, $69.6 million contract he signed in March 2023. Its annual cap charge is $8.7 million, a substantial consideration for any club discussing a possible acquisition. His no-trade clause requires consent to move.

Detroit selected Larkin 15th overall in the 2014 draft. His career totals stand at 649 points, including 278 goals, across 818 games.

Horcoff’s next public comments should clarify the club’s immediate approach. Until then, Chicago preparation proceeds with Larkin unavailable and no confirmed destination for the longtime Detroit center.