Red Wings Lose Top Scorers Larkin and Copp for Two Weeks

Detroit's playoff hopes take a hit as the team's top centers are sidelined with injuries.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 4:55pm

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The Detroit Red Wings have suffered a major blow to their playoff hopes as top scorers Dylan Larkin and Andrew Copp will be out for at least two weeks due to injuries. With the team already struggling to stay in the playoff race, the loss of their top two centers comes at a critical time.

Why it matters

The Red Wings are currently in a tight race for a playoff spot in the Atlantic Division, sitting just three points behind the Montreal Canadiens for third place. The extended absences of Larkin and Copp could make it difficult for Detroit to maintain their position and secure a postseason berth.

The details

Red Wings coach Todd McLellan announced that Larkin and Copp will be re-evaluated in two weeks after sustaining undisclosed injuries. In their absence, the team has recalled reinforcements from their AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids, including center Sheldon Dries, who is expected to play tonight against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

  • On March 12, 2026, the Red Wings announced that Larkin and Copp will be out for at least two weeks.

The players

Dylan Larkin

The Red Wings' captain and top center, who is sidelined with an injury.

Andrew Copp

The Red Wings' second-line center, who is also out with an injury.

Todd McLellan

The head coach of the Detroit Red Wings.

Sheldon Dries

A center recalled from the Red Wings' AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids to help fill the void left by Larkin and Copp's injuries.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Red Wings will have to rely on their depth players and younger prospects to step up in the absence of Larkin and Copp. The team's playoff hopes could hinge on how well they can weather this injury storm.

The takeaway

The Red Wings' playoff push has taken a significant hit with the injuries to their top two centers. The team will need to find a way to overcome these setbacks and maintain their position in the tight Atlantic Division race.