A new era for the Red Wings' preseason
The Detroit Red Wings have announced a shift in their 2026‑27 NHL preseason preparations, confirming that the familiar pilgrimage to Traverse City will not take place this year.
Instead, the club will conduct its training camp at Little Caesars Arena and the adjacent Belfor Training Center from September 17 through 20, offering fans a chance to see the squad in a downtown setting.
The organization also welcomes back the NHL rookie tournament, scheduled for September 12‑15, where the Wings will join the Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars and Pittsburgh Penguins in a four‑team showcase.
With the league trimming each team’s preseason slate to four games, Detroit will meet three different opponents, beginning with a road test against the Blue Jackets on September 21 before heading to Pittsburgh on September 22.
The exhibition run continues with a home matchup versus the Buffalo Sabres on September 24 at Little Caesars Arena, and culminates with a final home game against the Blue Jackets on September 26, marking the close of the preseason.