Larkin Greeted With Boos in Detroit as Trade Request Lingers
Dylan Larkin was booed by Red Wings fans during Detroit’s home-opener introductions while he was listed as a scratch because of an upper-body injury. Larkin requested a trade after last season and lost the captaincy, and Detroit placed him on injured reserve retroactively. His approved destination list has grown to eight teams, while owner Chris Ilitch said the club is in no rush to move him.
Larkin was booed Friday at Little Caesars Arena when introduced among Detroit's scratches before facing the Rangers. He is out with an upper-body injury and was placed on injured reserve Friday, retroactive to Aug. 15. Coach Todd McLellan ruled him out Friday and Sunday, with Tuesday against Ottawa possible.
Larkin requested a trade after last season and lost the captaincy before camp. His approved destination list has grown to eight teams. Owner Chris Ilitch said in September the club isn't rushing a move, while interim GM Shawn Horcoff has kept talks private. Larkin ranks 10th in franchise scoring with 643 points and is in year four of an eight-year, $69.6 million contract.
The booing could deepen the divide between Larkin and Detroit's fanbase, affecting his comfort if he returns and the team's home atmosphere. Teammates and coaches may face added distraction as trade questions continue. For supporters, the saga may shape how they view loyalty, captaincy, and rebuild decisions. An eventual trade could shift fan allegiances and jersey sales, while a reconciliation might ease tensions. The situation may also influence how other players and clubs handle public trade requests.