Moritz Seider is being pegged as Detroit's next captain, according to a new report, regardless of what happens with Dylan Larkin.
Insider Ansar Khan raised the idea this week on Oilers Now, framing Seider as the clear favorite for the captaincy.
"I wouldn't be surprised if that happens even if Dylan Larkin comes back," Khan said.
That phrasing matters. It suggests the captaincy decision may not hinge on whether Larkin is even still on the roster.
Seider gives Detroit a legitimate case either way. He posted 10 goals and 50 assists for 60 points over 82 games this past season.
He also carries a plus-15 rating, real proof of his two-way value on a Detroit blue line that leans on him heavily.
Seider plays this season on an $8.55 million cap hit, the kind of number teams usually attach to a franchise cornerstone.
The call comes even if Larkin stays in Detroit
Head coach Todd McLellan already has Seider logging heavy minutes on the back end, another reason the captaincy chatter makes sense.
Larkin's own situation remains unresolved. He requested a trade this offseason, with some teams reportedly viewing him as more of a second-line center elsewhere.
Larkin still posted 34 goals and 67 points over 74 games this past season, closing strong with 11 points over his final 10 games.
Detroit missed the playoffs entirely last season, finishing 41-31-10 for 92 points and 16th overall.
The captaincy question adds another layer to an offseason that already includes a GM search after Steve Yzerman's departure.
Whoever takes over as general manager inherits both decisions, the captaincy and the Larkin situation, at essentially the same time.
Khan's original comments through Oilers Now lay out the full context on where this stands.
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Naming a captain while your best-known forward is actively trying to leave would be an unusual message to send, but Detroit's offseason has already been full of unusual messages.
Should the Red Wings name Moritz Seider captain even if Larkin stays?
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