Larkin Misses Red Wings Opener with Injury as Fans Boo His Return

Key points

• Larkin is out for the Friday opener against the New York Rangers and Sunday's game against the Winnipeg Jets.
• McLellan stated Larkin is working with training staff and hopes to play against the Ottawa Senators on October 6.
• Larkin was placed on injured reserve and sat on the bench for the opener, where he was booed by fans.
• The injury occurred during offseason gym workouts, preventing him from participating in any preseason games.
• Larkin signed an eight-year, $69.6 million contract with Detroit in March 2023.

Background

This injury adds uncertainty to Larkin's future with Detroit following his June trade request and the subsequent loss of his captaincy. Earlier coverage noted that interim GM Shawn Horcoff emphasized private talks regarding Larkin's status while the team navigated leadership changes and a decade-long playoff drought. Larkin had previously expressed a desire to rebuild trust with teammates through his actions on the ice.

How outlets are covering it

NHL.com and WXYZ 7 News Detroit focus on the medical timeline, confirming McLellan's hope for a return by the third game. The Detroit News highlights the social fallout, reporting that Larkin was roundly booed during pregame introductions at the season opener. While NHL.com emphasizes McLellan's supportive stance on Larkin's commitment, The Detroit News notes that no trade has materialized despite the request, suggesting the Wings are seeking equal value. ESPN's source was inaccessible due to a server error.

Why it matters

Larkin is the Red Wings' No. 1 center and a key offensive driver, ranking 10th in team history with 643 points. His absence at the start of the season impacts the team's immediate competitive outlook and complicates the ongoing negotiation of his future with the franchise. The fan reaction indicates a fractured relationship between the star player and the local support base.

What to watch

Larkin is expected to return for the game against the Ottawa Senators at Little Caesars Arena on October 6. The Red Wings will continue to evaluate his progress with the training staff. The team must also navigate the absence of their top center while managing the broader organizational changes following the trade request saga.