Unlikely Red Wings Captain Larkin Plays Before Weekend

“Don’t know yet,” Detroit coach Derek Lalonde said of Larkin’s status. “I wouldn’t put him in that day to day yet.

“I think Thursday might be a little aggressive but it’s progressed pretty well each day.”

Red Wings Feeling Larkin’s Absence

Larkin has already been missing for seven games. He was hurt during a 4-0 loss to the Florida Panthers on March 2. Detroit has gone 1-6 in those seven games minus Larkin. Overall, the Red Wings are 3-12 through the past 15 games they’ve played without their captain.

Larkin leads the club with 26 goals and is tied for second in points with 54. Detroit is averaging just 2.28 goals per game during Larkin’s absence.

He was skating with the team as the Red Wings were participating in the pre-game skate on Tuesday morning.

“Obviously, a positive that he skated,” Lalonde said. “We’ll get a full practice with him tomorrow and have a better feel.”

Detroit could also be without forward Michael Rasmussen tonight. He’s battling an illness and will be a game time decision.

“We’ll see after warmups,” Lalonde said. “Basically he’s home resting.

“We’ll get a better feel as the day progresses.”

Capitals Leapfrog Detroit

Following Washington’s 5-2 win Monday at Calgary, the struggling Wings are now one point out of playoff spot.

“I just think everyone is battling, everyone is in it,” Lalonde said. “I feel somewhat fortunate with our run of late that we’re right there. Basically, if you win hockey games, you’re going to get there.

“Washington is one of those teams winning hockey games right now. No different than where we were at during that 16-4 stretch. It’s about everyone just taking care of their own game and winning and we have an opportunity tonight.”