Red Wings Suspend Dylan Larkin Without Pay Amid Trade Standoff

The Detroit Red Wings have suspended Dylan Larkin without pay after the former captain informed the team he would not play until a trade was finalized. The team expressed disappointment with Larkin's decision.

"Dylan Larkin has informed us that he will no longer play for the Detroit Red Wings. We are disappointed by this decision, particularly given his obligations to the organization and his teammates. We have therefore suspended Dylan without pay," interim general manager Shawn Horcoff said in a statement released Thursday evening. Horcoff added that the team will continue to explore trade opportunities for Larkin, but any deal must be approved by the player and align with the organization's long-term goals.

Larkin's trade request became public nearly five months ago. The 30-year-old center possesses a full no-trade clause and has provided the Red Wings with a list of 10 teams to which he would accept a trade. According to reports, this list includes the Panthers, Wild, Golden Knights, Stars, Capitals, Hurricanes, Mammoth, Lightning, Devils, and Avalanche.

The current situation escalated Thursday when Larkin declined to report for the team's game against the Chicago Blackhawks. Larkin's agent, Pat Brisson, stated that Larkin had "had enough of the situation" and had been professional and cooperative throughout the process.

Larkin has not publicly stated his reasons for requesting a trade, a decision made after the 2025-26 season. He was stripped of his captaincy before training camp and missed the beginning of the current season due to an injury. Larkin was met with boos from Red Wings fans during the home opener ceremonies.

In 10 games played this season, Larkin has recorded six points, with two goals and four assists. He has achieved at least 30 goals in each of his last five seasons.