Detroit Red Wings: 3 top performers from beginning of ’23-24 season

Oct 26, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Detroit Red Wings defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere (41) handles the puck during the first period against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Detroit Red Wings defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere (41) handles the puck during the first period against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
2 of 4
Detroit Red Wings, Red Wings, Dylan Larkin
(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin is excelling in his new role.

Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has gotten off to a great start in 2023-24. He put his health on the line near the end of the team’s win over the Boston Bruins and may have to miss some time, but his start has been exceptional.

The Detroit Red Wings should be thrilled with how things are going for their captain, who has sort of taken on a new role. Larkin has played in 12 games in 2023-24, managing five goals and 12 assists for 17 total points, being one of the premier names in the league for scoring, and staying inside the top ten.

When it comes to Larkin’s role, he’s been able to take a backseat and not have to be “the guy” given the team’s off-season additions. So far, Larkin has adjusted well, being able to have some pressure taken off while he continues to put up numbers.

Larkin has held down a spot on the top line, being the leader and doing an exceptional job of manufacturing offense. Between his time on the power play that was on fire to start the season or 5-on-5 chances, Larkin has been able to get the job done.

He looks great out there, moving well in transition and on zone entries, being the same player he always has been, but having support around him to do damage. The Red Wings should be thrilled with his performance in the early parts of 2023-24.