Why Have The Detroit Red Wings Suspended Dylan Larkin Amid His Trade Request?

Dylan Larkin's situation has become one of the biggest stories surrounding the Detroit Red Wings, with the dispute now affecting the franchise's plans beyond the current season. The Waterford, Michigan, native spent his entire NHL career in Detroit after being selected in the first round of the 2014 draft. He also became one of the team's leading scorers during a period when the organization struggled to return to the playoffs. The latest development leaves Detroit facing a difficult decision: find a trade that meets its expectations or continue without a player who has been central to its lineup.

Shawn Horcoff Confirms Dylan Larkin's Suspension After Forward Refuses to Return 

The Red Wings announced Thursday that Larkin had been suspended without pay after informing the organization that he would no longer play for the team. 

Interim general manager Shawn Horcoff said in a statement, “We received a call from Dylan's agent today just saying that Dylan wasn't going to be coming to the rink and no longer wanted to be a part of the Red Wings,” Horcoff said. 

Detroit was disappointed by his decision but would continue exploring trade opportunities. Horcoff added, “We are disappointed by his decision, particularly given his obligations to the organization and his teammates. We will continue to explore trade opportunities involving Dylan. In addition to needing his approval, any trade also must be in the best interests of the Detroit Red Wings and support the organization's long-term goals.”

Shawn Horcoff Explains Difficulty of Finding a Dylan Larkin Trade

Larkin has a full no-trade clause and has reportedly approved 10 teams: Florida, Minnesota, Vegas, Dallas, Washington, Carolina, Utah, Tampa Bay, New Jersey and Colorado. Horcoff said the limited list and the financial details involved have made negotiations difficult.

“With the teams that Dylan has on his list, it's difficult to get something done. A trade like this, there are significant challenges when you're trying to put a salary like Dylan's into a team, trying to find the right pieces to give in return. So, it's difficult,” he said. “How long it takes, I'm not sure. But I'm prepared to wait as long as necessary to make sure that the return that we get is something that is good for the Red Wings overall.”

Dylan Larkin's Career Numbers and Contract in Detroit

Larkin has recorded 649 points in 818 regular-season games, with 278 goals and 371 assists. He has scored at least 30 goals in six of his 11 NHL seasons, including each of the past five seasons. His career-high came last season, when he scored 34 goals.

The forward signed an eight-year, $69.6 million contract on March 1, 2023. The deal carries an $8.7 million average annual value and has five seasons remaining after the current season. Larkin ranks 10th in Red Wings history in both goals and points, while his 371 assists place him 11th in franchise history.