Dylan Larkin will report to the Detroit Red Wings’ training camp ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season, but his future with the franchise remains uncertain after he requested a trade this offseason.
The Red Wings confirmed Friday that Larkin remains under contract and will join his teammates at training camp. However, the longtime Detroit captain will not begin the upcoming season wearing the captaincy, adding another layer of uncertainty to the situation.
Dylan Larkin confirms he will attend training camp
Larkin addressed his situation in a statement released by the Red Wings on Sept. 11. The veteran center said he had recently held several detailed discussions with team leadership and intends to focus on preparing for the new season.
Larkin also indicated that further conversations about the direction of the franchise will take place once Detroit has new hockey operations leadership in place.
His decision to report to camp means the Red Wings will have their longtime star available as preparations begin for the 2026-27 campaign, even though trade speculation is likely to continue.
Why did Dylan Larkin request a trade?
Larkin requested a trade during the offseason following another disappointing year for Detroit. The Red Wings missed the playoffs for a 10th consecutive season, increasing pressure on the organization to make significant changes.
The trade request also came amid uncertainty surrounding the team’s front office. Steve Yzerman stepped aside from his role as general manager in July and transitioned into a senior adviser position.
Finding a suitable trade for Larkin has reportedly been complicated because he limited the Red Wings to three potential destinations while Detroit sought a significant return for one of its most important players.
Dylan Larkin will not be Red Wings captain
One of the biggest developments is that Larkin will no longer be the Detroit Red Wings captain when training camp begins.
Larkin was named captain in January 2021 and has worn the role throughout a difficult period for the franchise. The Red Wings said they will begin the 2026-27 season without naming a captain.
The organization explained that any decision regarding the captaincy will be made after a new hockey operations leader is hired.
That means Larkin’s return to camp should not be interpreted as a permanent resolution of the trade situation. His status could remain a major storyline until Detroit’s new leadership determines its plans.
Larkin remains under contract with Detroit
Despite the trade request, Larkin remains officially under contract with the Red Wings.
The 30-year-old center has spent his entire NHL career in Detroit after developing into one of the franchise’s most recognizable players. A Michigan native and former University of Michigan standout, Larkin has strong ties to the organization and the region.
In March 2023, he signed an eight-year contract extension worth nearly $70 million, keeping him tied to Detroit for the long term.
His contract, leadership experience and importance to the lineup make any potential trade a major decision for the Red Wings.
When is Red Wings training camp?
Detroit’s training camp is scheduled for Sept. 17 through Sept. 20 at Little Caesars Arena.
The Red Wings will then begin their preseason schedule on Sept. 21 against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Detroit’s 2026-27 regular season is scheduled to open at home on Oct. 2 against the New York Rangers.
Larkin’s presence at camp gives the organization an opportunity to assess the situation on the ice while its search for new hockey operations leadership continues.
What happens next for Dylan Larkin?
For now, Larkin is preparing to return to the ice with the Red Wings. His statement suggests that the next major discussion about his future will come after Detroit appoints its new hockey operations leader.
That leaves several possibilities open. Larkin could ultimately remain in Detroit and continue his career with the organization, or the Red Wings could revisit trade opportunities once their new leadership is established.
For Detroit, the decision will have major implications. Larkin has been a central figure for the franchise for years, but the team’s extended playoff drought and his trade request have created a difficult situation.
As training camp approaches, Dylan Larkin is still a Red Wing — but his long-term future in Detroit remains one of the biggest questions surrounding the team heading into the 2026-27 NHL season.
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