Detroit Red Wings 2017-18 Player Profiles: Dylan Larkin

After a disappointing sophomore season in the National Hockey League for Dylan Larkin, the Michigan native will look to rebound in the 2017-18 season.

Larkin had high expectations set for the 2016-17 season by fans but the 21-year-old faltered in his second season in the NHL. However, the upcoming season offers the young forward a chance to get back on track in his career.

Player Info

Position: C

Jersey Number: 71

Age: 21

Home Country: United States

Career Outlook

A fantastic rookie season displayed the full potential Larkin possess. In 80 appearances, he produced 45 points, which included 23 goals. At the end of the regular season, Larkin led the team in goals scored becoming only the sixth Red Wings rookie to do so.

Perhaps one of his best moments came in the NHL All-Star Game when he won the fastest skater competition and broke the event record. Since he was the first Red Wings player to play in an All-Star Game since Steve Yzerman, the hype train was in full-effect.

Last Season

Larkin struggled to match the numbers he produced in the previous campaign in the 2016-17 season. In the end, he would finish with 32 points in 80 appearances, with 17 goals and 15 assists. He had inconsistent periods throughout the season, including a disappointing February performance with only one point recorded during the month.

The end of the season came with a bit more positivity for Larkin as he performed very well at the 2017 IIHF World Championships. In eight games played he had 10 points and was one of the most consistent and creative players on Team USA’s roster.

Next: Detroit Red Wings 2017-18 Player Profiles: Jimmy Howard

Looking Ahead

It will be a big year ahead for Larkin as he looks to bounce back in the upcoming season. A 50 point season would likely quiet any doubters and give him a wealth of confidence moving forward in his career.

The Red Wings will need Larkin’s offensive ability throughout the season and his goal scoring will need to pick up if the team hopes to win games this season. It was apparent at times that the team suffered from his lack of production last season. His performance at the world championships was a good indicator that he is very much capable of being a consistent offensive contributor.

His performance at the world championships was a good indicator that he is very much capable of being a consistent offensive contributor. Let’s hope he can come through with a massive season.