Bissonnette blasts Detroit fans over Larkin boos, backs captaincy return
Paul Bissonnette strongly defended Dylan Larkin on Spittin' Chiclets, arguing that Detroit fans should direct their frustration at ownership rather than the player. He also said the Red Wings should return the captaincy to Larkin after the team stripped it following his trade request. The article adds that Simon Edvinsson, who reported to camp without a contract, now wants a trade after frustrating negotiations and has returned to Sweden.
Bissonnette first criticized Detroit’s handling of Larkin on TNT, suggesting the team should have anticipated the reaction. Larkin was introduced as a healthy scratch at the Oct. 2 home opener and heard boos throughout; four days later, in his season debut, fans booed his first shift and nearly every puck touch.
Detroit removed Larkin’s captaincy after his trade request and opened the year without a captain. Meanwhile, Simon Edvinsson attended camp unsigned and paid for his own insurance; after what Spittin’ Chiclets sources described as an insulting offer, he reportedly wants a trade and has returned to Sweden.
The fallout could affect Detroit fans, players, and the club’s reputation. Continued booing may deepen tension between supporters and ownership, while how Larkin and Edvinsson are handled could influence how prospective free agents view the organization. For players, public criticism and stalled negotiations may add stress; for fans, the dispute may shape trust in team leadership. The situation may also keep broader NHL labor and fan-relations issues in focus.