DETROIT — The banner honoring captain Dylan Larkin that once hung outside Little Caesars Arena was removed on Thursday, sparking a wave of reactions from Red Wings fans as the trade saga surrounding the star forward continues.
Fans express frustration over team decisions
Local residents shared their thoughts with FOX 2 reporters after the Red Wings faced the Vegas Golden Knights. “Trying to keep it clean,” said Detroit resident Robert Maceri. “If they would treated the team right, I think he would’ve wanted to stay. But they screwed up, so he wanted to go, and I don’t blame him.”
Gary Taylor, also from Detroit, offered a more conciliatory tone: “Wherever he goes, I hope he’s happy. He’ll probably do great other things than what he did when he was here. So I wish him the best wherever he ends up.”
Joe Livingway of Dearborn was blunt: “Actually, I think a lot of it has to do with Larkin on this one. You know he wants to play with his American buddies, Olympic buddies. He doesn’t want to be here in Detroit. So, can I swear? F*ck him.”
Recent on‑ice developments
The season began with fans booing Larkin amid off‑ice drama, including his request for a trade, the removal of his captain’s “C,” and a mysterious upper‑body injury that sidelined him for several games. After a brief return, Larkin announced on Oct. 29 that he would not skate for the team, prompting the Red Wings to suspend him without pay.
Veteran reporter weighs in
Bob Duff, a sports journalist who has covered the Red Wings for more than four decades, said he respects Larkin’s contractual rights. “I think, ya know, he’s in his rights to do what he’s doing,” Duff said. “Players get a no‑trade clause so they can exercise that option. So I really don’t have a problem with that. I think the problem I have with it is you signed an 8‑year deal. The franchise made a big commitment to you as their future leader. And, a heavily front‑loaded contract to. So he’s gotten the majority of his money already and now you’re leaving. You’re basically leaving the team that committed to you high and dry.”
Fan‑run website tracks financial impact
A fan‑created site called “Larkin Losses” monitors the daily financial loss Larkin incurs while suspended. The site reports a loss of $41,000 per day.
Community response
Several fans attending Thursday’s game wore bags over their heads in a visual protest, underscoring the depth of disappointment felt across the city. The banner removal, a symbolic gesture, has become a focal point for broader concerns about how the organization handles its marquee players.
As the Red Wings move forward, the conversation in Detroit remains centered on whether the franchise can rebuild trust with its fan base while navigating the uncertain future of its captain.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
