Dylan Larkin will no longer play for the Red Wings as Detroit reportedly moves closer to a trade

The Dylan Larkin situation in Detroit just took a sharp turn.

Head coach Todd McLellan told reporters Thursday that Larkin will not play against the Chicago Blackhawks, and interim general manager Shawn Horcoff will address the situation later today.

Frank Seravalli says his understanding is that the Red Wings remain engaged in trade talks, but the plan is for Larkin to sit until a deal is done.

The thinking is asset protection, meaning no injury risk before a trade lands.

Seravalli adds that it sounds like Larkin's camp has applied pressure.

Larkin's trade request became public June 4, when Elliotte Friedman reported it.

Detroit has stayed patient since, partly because Larkin is signed through 2031 and there is no financial pressure to settle.

Horcoff reportedly wants a big haul, including prospects, a top-nine forward and a first-round pick.

Detroit has also made clear it does not want another full teardown, so a return that can help right away matters.

The Red Wings stripped Larkin of the captaincy in September, and the 30-year-old has two goals and six points through 10 games this season.

Sitting him now is a major shift for a team that has leaned on him for years.

Pierre LeBrun reports that talks have escalated, which fits the timing.

Larkin has also widened his approved trade list, and the Montreal Canadiens and Minnesota Wild have both been linked to him.

Detroit reportedly has multiple offers on the table but is holding out for more.

No deal has been announced, so nothing is final yet.

Horcoff's session with the media should show how close Detroit really is.

Fans should get answers soon.

Until then, Larkin watches from the sidelines while the Red Wings chase the best return they can find.

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