What happened: Detroit opens its 2026-27 schedule Friday still without a captain after stripping Larkin last month. Todd McLellan ruled him out for the opening weekend and set Tuesday as the target for his return.

Why it matters: The absence freezes a camp standoff after Larkin declined to say whether his trade request still stands. Detroit entered camp trying to reconcile with its former captain, making opening-week availability the first test of that effort.

What to watch: Watch whether Larkin returns to full practice before Tuesday's game.