The Detroit Red Wings are headed for a crucial period in their franchise’s past. The most critical item on a lengthy list of concerns that need to be addressed is, without a doubt, Dylan Larkin’s future with the team. After requesting a trade, the team captain is currently at odds with Red Wings management. In addition, the team’s leadership needs to identify a new general manager since Steve Yzerman was fired.
Max Smith of Detroit Hockey Now is hinting that Faulk might be sold by the Red Wings soon. With the exception of DeBrincat, the defenseman currently makes the most money among these potential unrestricted free agents. He will be entering the last season of his seven-year, $45.5 million ($6.5 million AAV) contract. If the Detroit Red Wings don’t make progress in 2026–27, it would be smart to trade him.
A number of the Lions’ essential players are also expected to finish their last contract year. The best player on this specific roster is generally thought to be Alex DeBrincat. Considering everything, the Red Wings’ top scorer in 2025–2026 was the forward. However, Andrew Copp, Daniil Tarasov, John Gibson, and Justin Faulk are all expected to be free agents after the following season.
Smith states that the excellent depth of young blueliners in Detroit may have an impact on the team’s decision regarding Faulk. Given that Axel Sandin-Pellikka is “right on the horizon,” the author claims that “the team could afford to move off [Faulk’s] contract for a return more suited to the team’s future roster needs.” Sandin-Pellikka is expected to play on the Red Wings’ third line next season.
The futures of Justin Faulk and John Gibson must be decided by the Detroit Red Wings.
The Detroit Red Wings could offer Gibson another short-term deal, but they might let Faulk leave. In his last season, the seasoned goalkeeper played well, finishing with a 2.72 GAA and a .901 save percentage. However, Trey Augustine is in Detroit, waiting to take over Gibson’s role. Scott Wheeler of The Athletic just ranked the ex-Michigan State standout as the organization’s second greatest prospect.
The young player, however, has only participated in two AHL games and may not be ready to assume Detroit’s starting position in 2027. Alternatively, Augustine might be better off acting as Gibson’s backup after a whole season in the minor leagues. If that were true, Tarasov would likely depart the Red Wings after just one season.
But the Detroit Red Wings shouldn’t consider money to be their primary factor when making these particular decisions. According to PuckPedia.com, the squad has over $19 million in cap space right now. Of all NHL teams, Detroit is the richest. This number would also increase dramatically if Larkin is moved.
The season’s slow start might decide Faulk’s future in Detroit.
How the Detroit Red Wings start the 2026–27 season may determine Faulk’s position with the organization. The defenseman’s fate with the organization may be decided by a sluggish start. Larkin’s situation may have an effect on how Detroit deals with Faulk.
The Red Wings are currently seeking a player of similar caliber to their captain in exchange for his trade. The team doesn’t want a complete makeover. However, if Larkin is determined to quit, Detroit might eventually give in to their demands. Bringing in young assets for the forward might signal a comparable transaction for Faulk.
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