Red Wings star Dylan Larkin suspended without pay

The development marks a major escalation in the standoff between Larkin and the Red Wings.

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Larkin will no longer play for Red Wings

Larkin’s trade situation had been developing for months, but Thursday’s events pushed it to another level. After previously playing for Detroit despite requesting a trade, Larkin informed the organization that he would sit out until a deal is completed. His agent, Pat Brisson, said Larkin had “had enough of the situation” and maintained that his client had been professional and cooperative throughout the process.

Larkin was subsequently held out of Thursday night’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks. Head coach Todd McLellan said interim general manager Shawn Horcoff would address the situation, setting the stage for the Red Wings’ announcement later in the day.

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Detroit ultimately confirmed that Larkin had informed the organization he would no longer play for the team. In response, the Red Wings suspended him without pay while continuing to explore trade opportunities involving the veteran forward. The team also made clear that any potential trade must require Larkin’s approval and be in the best interests of the organization.

The situation represents a stunning development for a player who had continued to suit up for Detroit after his trade request. Larkin has recorded two goals and six points in 10 games this season.

Red Wings continue searching for a trade

The biggest question now is how quickly Detroit can find a trade that satisfies both sides. Larkin has a full no-trade clause, meaning he has significant control over where he can be moved. His reported list of acceptable destinations has expanded to 10 teams, giving the Red Wings more potential options while still leaving the organization needing to find a deal that meets its expectations.

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Larkin is in the fifth season of an eight-year, $69.9 million contract, with an $8.7 million annual salary-cap hit. That contract, combined with his no-trade protection, makes the situation considerably more complicated for Horcoff and the Red Wings.

Detroit has also made clear that it will not simply move Larkin for the sake of completing a trade. Horcoff said the organization will continue exploring opportunities, but any deal must support the Red Wings’ long-term goals.

For now, Larkin is suspended without pay and will remain out until the situation is resolved. What had been a trade request has now become a full-blown player-team standoff, leaving the Red Wings facing a major decision involving one of the most significant players in the organization.

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