Larkin's Shadow Looms as Wings Enter Preseason

The Detroit Red Wings opened training camp on a complicated note, with Dylan Larkin's presence drawing scrutiny from outside observers even as the team tries to move forward. TSN's Cameron Gaunce argued that Larkin showing up to camp has created a bigger distraction than Connor Hellebuyck's absence from Winnipeg, suggesting leadership discussions will be awkward for the organization The Malik Report. Meanwhile, the team is working to stay focused on the task at hand: a compressed preseason schedule means the coaching staff and players have less time to prepare than usual, with only four games over one week instead of the traditional eight games over two weeks The Malik Report.

Off the ice, the Red Wings announced a new jersey patch sponsor in DQS Solutions & Staffing, a Metro Detroit-based workforce partner The Malik Report, while also unveiling their broadcast plans for the 2026-27 season on Detroit SportsNet and the MLB app. On the roster front, unsigned defenseman Simon Edvinsson is participating in training camp rather than sitting out, showing his commitment to being ready when a deal is finalized. The team also welcomed Special Olympians from Michigan as VIPs at the opening day of camp, providing them with an exclusive player experience. Prospect standouts Carter Bear and Theo Rochette impressed observers at the team's prospect tournament, while the broader outlook remains challenging—multiple publications have picked the Wings to finish last in the Atlantic Division this season.