More good news on the injury front came this morning for the Detroit Red Wings. Captain and top line center Dylan Larkin was seen at morning skate in a non-contact jersey. This exceptionally good news comes fresh off the heels of Andrew Copp's recent injury update. While Larkin still isn't expected back until next week, seeing him skate following his gruesome injury is an extremely encouraging sign for the injured Red Wings.
Dylan Larkin is putting in work by himself before Red Wings morning skate today pic.twitter.com/vgH7wroe64
March 19, 2026Larkin will be re-evaluated for return as early as next week. He remains on schedule for recovery following his gruesome injury against the Florida Panthers earlier this month.
Red Wings need Larkin now more than ever
With Larkin out of the lineup, the Red Wings managed just a 2-3-1 record. The rest of the division, on the other hand, has picked up steam in Larkin's absence. The Ottawa Senators and Columbus Blue Jackets, both on Detroit's heels, have lost a combined one game in regulation over their last 10 outings. The Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins have also continued to see success, with the Bruins now tied with the Red Wings for points in the wild card race.
The surging Senators are now just four points behind the Red Wings for a wild card spot. The Blue Jackets are a single point behind. Detroit's margin of error is becoming increasingly small. Tonight's game against Montreal is just about as must-win as you can get.
Andrew Copp: Possible return tonight
The good news is that reinforcements are on their way. Center Andrew Copp was a full participant at practice yesterday and, per Todd McLellan, is ahead of schedule for recovery. Getting Copp back gives the team a little extra leeway and depth on the roster. While we've seen other members of the roster step into bigger shoes, the return of Copp alleviates loads of pressure from the team's depth.
After the Red Wings play the Canadiens, they'll have to contend with the Boston Bruins on Saturday, followed by the Ottawa Senators and Buffalo Sabres. All three of their opponents are Atlantic division rivals. If the team can manage at least two wins against these three teams, they'll be in a much better position for Larkin's return.
In the past, the Red Wings have struggled under pressure, often collapsing in March right before the playoff push. This is a great opportunity for the team to show that they aren't the teams of the past. If they can make the playoffs even with all the adversity they face, they'll show to the fans and the rest of the NHL that they've broken the streak of March misery.