Red Wings Assistant GM spotted at Sabres game amid Larkin trade rumors

The Detroit Red Wings may be preparing for a significant roster overhaul, even if their captain remains hesitant to move. While Dylan Larkin has reportedly maintained a strict list of only 10 preferred destinations for a potential trade, Detroit management appears to be looking well beyond those boundaries. According to a report from Yahoo Sports, Red Wings Assistant GM Kris Draper was spotted in attendance at the Buffalo Sabres’ 5-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday, signaling that the team is actively scouting the league amid growing contract tensions.

This scouting trip follows Draper’s presence in Toronto earlier this week for the Utah vs. Toronto Maple Leafs game. The pattern of frequent travel suggests the Red Wings are intensifying their due diligence on multiple fronts, specifically regarding Larkin and Restricted Free Agent (RFA) Simon Edvinsson. For Detroit, the stakes involve more than just a single player; it is a question of how the franchise manages its core identity while navigating a tightening timeline for its most valuable assets.

The Larkin Impasse and the Sabres’ Interest

The situation surrounding Dylan Larkin has become a complex game of leverage. While NHL insiders, including TSN’s Darren Dreger, Chris Johnston, and Pierre LeBrun, as well as Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman and David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period, have noted that teams outside of Larkin’s preferred 10-club list have expressed interest, the captain’s agent has not yet expanded those options. This creates a strategic stalemate. Buffalo Sabres GM Jarmo Kekalainen is reportedly looking to bolster his offense following the departure of Alex Tuch last summer, and rumors have circulated that he approached Detroit with a significant offer for Larkin.

Detroit mi assistant coach terry murray of the buffalo sabres watches the action from the

However, the trade market is currently defined by hesitation. Most NHL front offices are unlikely to engage in major roster shifts until after US Thanksgiving, and teams currently outside of playoff contention generally prefer to wait until the New Year or the approaching trade deadline to move “rental” players. Detroit may be choosing to play a long game, potentially waiting for Larkin to grow frustrated with the ongoing impasse to see if he eventually softens his stance on his destination requirements.

The economic and competitive implications of this standoff are significant. If Larkin is moved, the Red Wings lose a cornerstone leader; if he stays under a cloud of uncertainty, the team risks locker room instability. For a franchise attempting to climb back into contention, the resolution of this contract dispute will dictate their trajectory for the next several seasons.

A Ticking Clock for Simon Edvinsson

While the Larkin saga dominates the headlines, a more immediate deadline is looming in the Detroit front office. The focus may be shifting toward top-pairing defenseman Simon Edvinsson, whose contract situation carries a hard deadline. To play in the NHL this season, Edvinsson must sign a new deal by December 1.

Buffalo ny derek roy of the buffalo sabres chases the puck with kris draper of the detroit red

As of now, there has been no indication that the 23-year-old will reach an agreement with Detroit. This lack of progress could force the Red Wings’ hand, potentially making the completion of a trade for Edvinsson their highest priority. The distinction between the two situations is clear: while the Larkin situation is a matter of long-term strategic maneuvering, the Edvinsson situation is a matter of immediate necessity.

Kienan Draper vs Luke Tuch | Sep 21, 2026 | Detroit Red Wings at Columbus Blue Jackets

Player	Status	Key Deadline/Constraint
Dylan Larkin	Restricted Trade List	Limited to 10 preferred destinations
Simon Edvinsson	RFA	Must sign by December 1 to play this season

The Red Wings find themselves in a delicate balancing act, managing a veteran leader’s preferences while racing against a calendar that threatens to sideline one of their most promising defensive talents. Whether Draper’s recent travels result in a blockbuster trade or simply serve as reconnaissance for future moves remains to be seen, but the Red Wings are clearly no longer sitting idle.

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