Red Wings drop preseason finale to Columbus 4-2, leaving roster questions unresolved heading into the regular season.
Preseason Ends on Sour Note; Larkin's Future in Flux
September 28, 2026 · ← Back to rollups
The Red Wings' preseason came to a disappointing close with a 4-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets at home Detroit Hockey Now, leaving roster questions unresolved as the regular season approaches. The loss underscores ongoing organizational struggles, particularly regarding contract negotiations with key players like Simon Edvinsson, whose deal remains unsigned after a full preseason—a sign the team continues to defer critical decisions u/seeldoger47. Meanwhile, speculation swirls around the future of captain Dylan Larkin, with reports suggesting his time in Detroit may be nearing an end Detroit Hockey Now. On the roster front, the Wings claimed defenseman Andreas Englund from Calgary, a move that could shape their defensive depth chart as they prepare for opening night Detroit News — Red Wings (via Google News).
The preseason struggles and unresolved contract situations paint a picture of an organization still working through its identity heading into 2026-27. With position groups still taking shape and key negotiations dragging on, the Red Wings face mounting pressure to finalize their roster and get clarity on their direction, particularly regarding veteran leadership and the development of younger players who remain in limbo.
Articles
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Position groups remain in flux as the Red Wings approach the roster deadline with several key decisions still pending.
From the community
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