Larkin's Trade Limbo, Edvinsson's Bridge Deal, and Friday's Opener Loom

The Detroit Red Wings enter their 2026-27 season with significant off-ice turbulence overshadowing preparations for Friday's home opener against the New York Rangers. Dylan Larkin's unresolved trade request remains the dominant storyline, with ESPN's Emily Kaplan reporting that teams inquiring about the captain believe the Red Wings' asking price may be unrealistic and that Detroit will likely need to come down from their initial demands and become more willing to accept futures The Malik Report. Meanwhile, restricted free agent defenseman Simon Edvinsson has returned to Sweden to practice with Frölunda, as contract negotiations continue; Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reports that Detroit remains firm on offering only a bridge deal despite the public pressure mounting around the situation The Malik Report. Coach Todd McLellan is focused on the team's immediate preparation, emphasizing the need to "build and polish" as the Wings work through their preseason camp The Malik Report.

Off the ice, former Red Wings goaltender Jimmy Howard has been named the goaltending coach for PWHL Detroit, bringing his 14-year NHL career and Stanley Cup experience to the women's professional league. The Athletic's Max Bultman notes that McLellan and the organization are trying to minimize "outside noise" as distractions from the Larkin situation and Edvinsson negotiations persist, with the coach saying "so far, so good" regarding the locker room atmosphere despite the hurdles ahead. The Red Wings have also made roster moves, assigning 11 forwards, 4 defensemen, and 3 goaltenders to the Griffins while releasing 4 players from professional tryouts u/MindyS1719.