What happened: Dylan Larkin has maintained a limited list of acceptable destinations, restricting Detroit's options as training camp approaches. Justin Faulk and Andrew Copp enter contract years, while Alex DeBrincat has expressed interest in staying long term. Viktor Arvidsson and Keegan Kolesar join an attack that lost Patrick Kane and could add Michael Brandsegg-Nygard.

Why it matters: Detroit must balance Larkin's request against the value of a contract carrying an $8.7 million cap hit through 2030-31. The Red Wings now own the NHL's longest active playoff drought after finishing seven points short of the final wild-card berth.

What to watch: Training camp will clarify whether Larkin reports and retains the captaincy. Detroit also must complete its general-manager search before major roster decisions move forward.