Detroit Red Wings forward Alex DeBrincat said Wednesday he would welcome captain Dylan Larkin back next season despite Larkin's June trade request. Speaking at the NHL/NHLPA North American Player Media Tour in Henderson, Nevada, DeBrincat stated, "He makes our team better and I'm more than happy to have him as a teammate." Larkin, 30, holds a full no-trade clause through 2027-28 on a contract running through 2030-31 with an $8.7 million AAV. Sources indicate friction between Larkin and management dates to 2023 contract talks. General manager Steve Yzerman stepped down in July after seven playoff-less seasons; a replacement has not been named.

DeBrincat, 28, acknowledged the difficulty of Larkin's decision: "I think sometimes in life you've got to make decisions for yourself." He praised Larkin for making him feel welcome upon his arrival. DeBrincat faces his own contract uncertainty, entering the final year of a deal with a $7.875 million cap hit and a 16-team no-trade list. Following a 41-goal season, he seeks a raise but affirmed, "My intention is obviously to stay in Detroit."

The Red Wings own the franchise's longest playoff drought at 10 seasons.