Detroit Red Wings face player trade requests and organizational instability

The Detroit Red Wings are facing significant organizational instability following a summer of leadership changes and player unrest. Long-time general manager Steve Yzerman was removed, and the team is currently searching for a new GM.

Key players are seeking exits from the franchise. Captain Dylan Larkin has requested a trade, a move that has led to friction with the fanbase, including heavy booing during the team's home opener. Larkin has also been placed on injured reserve due to an upper-body injury sustained during off-ice training.

Additionally, restricted free agent defenseman Simon Edvinsson remains unsigned after contract negotiations stalled. Edvinsson, who has returned to play in Sweden, reportedly prefers a trade out of Detroit. Potential suitors for the defenseman include the St. Louis Blues, Philadelphia Flyers, and San Jose Sharks.

On the ice, the Red Wings have struggled to start the 2026-27 season, losing their first two games. The team's penalty kill has been a major concern, struggling significantly in early matchups against the New York Rangers and Winnipeg Jets.