So far this offseason, the biggest question for the Red Wings has been around Dylan Larkin. With him demanding a trade and only picking a few places where he wanted to go, many have wondered what the Wings will get back. But the bigger question should be: who is going to replace Larkin? Who is going to become the face of the franchise and the guy they build around? Alex DeBrincat is the best player to assume that role. But what makes him the ideal person to be the face of the franchise? Â Â Â Â
Alex DeBrincat play style makes him someone the team can rally around
DeBrincat just posted the best season of his career. In 82 games, he logged 41 goals and 44 assists for 85 points. He tied his career high for goals scored and set new career highs in assists and points. His advanced metrics also show just how dominant on offense he was. According to Natural Stat Trick, he posted a 51.19 CF%, a 48.76 SCF%, and a 52.97 xG%. These are the numbers of an elite goal scorer.
When you watch DeBrincat, it feels like he can score from anywhere on the ice. Last season, he ranked in the 94th percentile or higher in shot location according to NHL Edge. This ability to shoot from everywhere is what you want from someone you are building your franchise around. He can carry a large portion of the offensive responsibility, allowing the Wings to invest more into other areas like defense and physicality.
He has also gotten a lot better at making an impact in other areas of the ice. He has improved a lot as a passer, notching 40 or more assists in two of the last three seasons. He also uses his speed and fiestiness to open shooting lanes and screen the goalie. This allows other players to grow as offensive contributors. If DeBrincat is doing the dirty work and creating better scoring chances, other players will also see an increase in their offensive production.
This is the type of player who can rally a team. Be the leader by example and show the rest of the team what it takes to win. He may not be the vocal guy in the clubhouse or wear the C, but his presence is a positive overall. It's the type of attitude that winning teams have, and other players will buy into it. It's the edge the Red Wings will need if they want to make the playoffs and go on deep runs.
Once the Red Wings figure out the Larkin situation, they need to lock DeBrincat up long-term. He is the perfect player to fill the hole Larkin will leave.
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