The Detroit Red Wings announced on Thursday that they have suspended star forward Dylan Larkin without pay following his decision to inform the club that he no longer wants to be part of the organization. The suspension comes after the 30-year-old missed morning skate and was held out of the lineup for reasons described by league sources as trade-related. During this period, Larkin will forfeit $41,000 in daily salary.
Interim general manager Shawn Horcoff confirmed that the team received a call from Larkin's agent stating the player would not report to the rink and wished to leave. Horcoff characterized trade discussions as ongoing, noting that interest in acquiring a player of Larkin's caliber has been significant. "Your phone rings daily," Horcoff stated, adding that his phone rang frequently throughout Thursday as he managed talks with potential suitors.
This development marks the latest chapter in a prolonged standoff between Larkin and the franchise. The Michigan native, who spent his entire 12-year career with the team after being drafted in the first round in 2014, initially requested a trade in June. Sources indicate that Larkin met with his agents, Pat Brisson and Matt Williams, on Wednesday evening to determine he had reached his limit. He reportedly felt he had handled the situation professionally while the organization delayed action.
Horcoff praised Larkin's performance during his tenure but acknowledged the difficulty of finalizing a trade given the specific teams on Larkin's list. ESPN confirmed last week that Larkin expanded his list of potential destinations from three to ten teams. The two-way center is currently in the fourth year of an eight-year contract worth $8.7 million annually and holds a no-trade clause.
Horcoff admitted that while he sensed growing frustration during the team's recent road trip, the decision for Larkin to stay away was somewhat surprising. Larkin had previously missed the start of the season due to an upper-body injury and was stripped of his captaincy before reporting to training camp. Although he returned to the lineup on October 6 with a goal and an assist against the Ottawa Senators, he has recorded two goals and six points through 10 games this season.
Teammates expressed relief that the situation is moving toward resolution. Defenseman Moritz Seider stated after Detroit's victory over Chicago that eliminating the constant noise surrounding the trade request would be beneficial for the group. Forward Alex DeBrincat echoed these sentiments, emphasizing confidence in the current roster and a desire to move forward. Head coach Todd McLellan also noted that the distraction caused by the saga has persisted for too long and that the team is ready to focus on winning.
Sources: ESPN News.