Larkin Sits Out As Wings Trade Moves Forward
The 30-year-old forward was ruled out for Thursday's game against Chicago while negotiations with ten teams continue.
By Fatou Kim ·
Detroit Red Wings forward Dylan Larkin will not play in Thursday's matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks. Head coach Todd McLellan confirmed the decision without providing specific medical reasons for the absence.
TSN hockey insider Pierre LeBrun reports that trade discussions involving Larkin have intensified in recent days. LeBrun noted that increased activity does not guarantee a trade will happen immediately, but the situation has moved past the initial stages of inquiry.
Interim general manager Shawn Horcoff is expected to speak to the team's plans. According to The Athletic, Horcoff will address the roster move without detailing the specific reasons for Larkin's sit-out against the Blackhawks.
Larkin has been inconsistent in his first ten games of the season. He has recorded two goals and six points. On Monday, he played 23 minutes and 16 seconds against the Edmonton Oilers, scoring the winning goal in a shootout victory.
The center requested a trade from Detroit during the summer. He initially provided a list of three teams he was willing to join. That list has expanded to ten clubs. Larkin was removed as captain before training camp began.
TSN insider Darren Dreger stated on Tuesday that the Red Wings are vetting teams on and off Larkin's preferred list. Dreger said the team's scouting department is monitoring potential suitors such as the St. Louis Blues and Montreal Canadiens. He observed that the number of teams interested in Larkin exceeds the number of teams he is willing to accept.
Larkin is in the fourth year of an eight-year contract worth $69.6 million. The deal carries an annual salary cap hit of $8.7 million.
