Dylan Larkin is ready to win some hockey games.
At the conclusion of the season, the 29-year-old captain, typically reserved in public settings, broke character during his end-of-season press conference, voicing his frustration after the Red Wings missed the playoffs for a ninth consecutive year.
In a rare moment of candor, Larkin offered a pointed yet measured critique of the organization’s approach—subtly questioning the front office, including general manager Steve Yzerman, for failing to make impactful moves at the trade deadline. Larkin's comments clearly did not sit well with Yzerman, as indicated by his tone when asked to elaborate on the situation.
It's easy to understand both sides. Larkin isn't a kid anymore and he wants to win. And on the other side of the argument, Yzerman won his first championship at the age of 32 and went on to win two more. In this day and age of hockey and sports and life in general, instant gratification is often pushed on younger people.
Take your job for example. Why do you think bosses look at résumés and look at job histories? They want to see what type of person you are. Are you the individual that sticks it out when times get tough, or do you run away to what you deem as comfortable or more convenient?
That's why some companies still require at least two years at your previous job before getting hired on with them.
Leadership Matters
None of us were privy to the private conversation between Yzerman and Larkin, but it’s reasonable to imagine that Larkin, after nearly a decade with the organization and another postseason absence, chose to voice his frustrations candidly.
As someone who has consistently led by example, it’s not hard to envision him expressing that the time had come to demand more—both for his teammates and for the franchise.
In turn, one could just as easily imagine Yzerman responding with quiet understanding—something to the effect of, “I appreciate you standing up for the group. I understand where you’re coming from—and believe me, I know how it feels.”
That hypothetical exchange may be far from reality, but the broader point stands: while Yzerman is rightly celebrated for captaining one of the greatest dynasties in NHL history, his legacy is often framed through the lens of triumph—overshadowing the difficult years that preceded success.
The 1985–86 season, for instance—the year before he assumed the captaincy—was a low point in franchise history. Detroit finished dead last in the league with only 17 wins and surrendered a staggering 415 goals, one of the worst defensive records in the NHL.
When Yzerman entered the league in 1983, the Red Wings were mired in mediocrity, earning the unflattering nickname “the Dead Wings.” While he didn’t face the constant scrutiny of social media, the relentless attention from the press—especially local newspapers—must have weighed heavily. Public pressure and private frustration are not new phenomena in Detroit; only the medium has changed.
So, while their private meeting was probably awkward as hell, it was likely also incredibly productive. Larkin had the opportunity to share his side of the story, and Yzerman likely opened up about the decades of experience that shaped not only his own career but also the trajectory of the Red Wings as a franchise.
The difference now is that it’s Larkin’s turn to lead a resurgence. He does so with the blessing of the man who led the last one, and with the support of a talented young core that looks poised to break through and deliver a strong season. Now a father, and with his focus sharper than ever, Larkin appears primed for the best campaign of his career.
Prediction: 38 goals, 44 assists—for a career-high 82 points, finally breaking the 80-point barrier.
Let's see what this team does this season.
More from Octopus Thrower