He is fun to watch. He is fast. He is talented. Detroit Red Wings Dylan Larkin is becoming elite. Nearly every game he is the most consistent player on the ice for the Red Wings. This season with 6 goals, 6 assists, and 12 points Dylan Larkin’s transformation is nearly complete.
The Detroit Red Wings young star has a top 25 center ceiling and is beginning to channel that lofty expectation. With Henrik Zetterberg, retired Larkin has upped his game. In the October 30th game vs. the Columbus Blue Jackets Larkin flashed his stuff.
Two goals (short-handed and open net) and an assist showed his offensive prowess. Not to be lost in the offensive display was Larkin’s great defensive play. His work in the corners and on the boards, coming away with the puck.
Great players elevate the play of linemates and teammates. This is the case with Dylan Larkin. As Dylan has stepped up his game, Anthony Mantha‘s game has stepped up as well. Dylan Larkin is one of the top playmakers in the NHL.
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There is another side. It is one hockey fans do not really talk about, but it is acknowledged. Dylan Larking is a good sportsman. He had a high stick penalty against Blue Jackets star forward Artemi Panarin. As Larkin was skating to the sin bin, he checked on Panarin and tapped him in the shin pads, a way to apologize. He is genuinely liked.
As Dylan Larkin has transformed himself into an excellent two-way center and as he has raised the play in his teammates. It is becoming clear. He wants to lead. He wants to lead the Red Wings out of the rebuild and into a better tomorrow. One that Detroit Red Wings fans are waiting for.
As a fan, it has been a lot of fun watching Dylan grow. From an All-Star rookie. To a sophomore who slumped. To a player who has willed himself to become great. To become a leader. To become an elite two-way player who is both respected and liked.
It is my opinion that Dylan Larkin, is going to trade the alternate captains “A” for the captains “C.” It is also my opinion that Dylan Larkin is a franchise player. Detroit fans can rest easy and maybe even have a corner smile when they think of Larkin playing alongside Filip Zadina and Mantha.
Until then, Detroit Red Wings fans should continue to watch Larkin get better and better. This is the way captains are born.