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Dylan Larkin, the Detroit Red Wings center, has been absent from the ice during training camp, but on Wednesday he took a significant step by joining his teammates for his first full practice of the preseason. The 30-year-old had been sidelined by an injury sustained during an off-ice workout just before camp began, not due to trade discussions that have dominated headlines.
Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan expressed surprise at Larkin's endurance. "He stayed out for the whole practice," McLellan told reporters, according to Bob Duff of Detroit Hockey Now. "I thought it was just going to be a portion of it." McLellan added that he believed Larkin was making solid progress in his recovery.
While reporting that a player completed a full practice might seem trivial, Larkin's situation is anything but ordinary. The timing of his injury compounded an already turbulent offseason. After the 2025-26 season, Larkin requested a trade, which became the organization's biggest storyline. Subsequently, the Red Wings announced they would start the season without a captain, effectively stripping Larkin of the role.
When Larkin addressed reporters on the first day of camp, he acknowledged his trade request and said he did not regret it. He also stated he understood Detroit's decision to remove his captaincy and admitted he had lost trust with both fans and teammates. "I wish I could show with my actions how to build trust with my teammates again and with the fans," Larkin said. Now, with his return to the ice, he has the opportunity to do just that.
However, one practice does not resolve his future. Neither Larkin nor the organization has provided further clarity, and both have pledged to keep matters private. Still, for the first time in months, the focus can shift from speculation to action.
Red Wings Taking It Slow
Larkin is not yet ready for game action. He was not placed on any of Detroit's four regular forward lines during practice; instead, he rotated with Wilmer Skoog. McLellan confirmed that Larkin will not play Thursday when the Red Wings face the Buffalo Sabres. Detroit concludes its preseason schedule on Saturday against the Columbus Blue Jackets, and it is possible, though not confirmed, that Larkin could see some playing time. The regular season opens on October 2 against the New York Rangers.
There is little reason for Detroit to rush Larkin back. He remains a key player, trusted or not, after recording 34 goals and 67 points in 74 games last season. If he stays in Detroit for the season, the team needs him healthy. Wednesday was an encouraging step toward that goal.
First Step in Bigger Return
Larkin's return to the ice does not alter the fundamental situation: his trade request still stands, and he is no longer captain. Those are significant issues that will not be resolved by a single September practice. For now, the best course may be to stay quiet, keep their heads down, and play hockey. Earning back the trust of players and fans while honoring his contract is the challenge ahead.