Lucas Raymond’s leap to the NHL (at least for now) has many of us looking back to Larkin’s transition. In the interview above, he talks about his own journey and how he is meshing with Raymond on the ice. Specifically he mentioned having a “forehand to forehand” pass from a right shot. It seems like a small thing but it’s a dynamic he really seems to appreciate.
Larkin took it upon himself to work with Seider and get the team to do some more hangouts. Last year’s restrictions made it hard for guys to bond the way they normally would. It’s also impressive to realize that Dylan could play his 500th game this year as a 25 year old. He’s done a lot for the team, and in the end he candidly talks about the downside of a rebuild. He wants Detroit playing meaningful games in April and May. He doesn’t want another 7 years in the league with “nothing to show for it”.
It’s rare to see players take that candid of a stance. Larkin definitely pulls the company line, but he is hungry to build a contender. I appreciate how hard he’s pushing to see things improve.
In some ways, Tampa Bay being the season opener is less than ideal. Even more so after Pittsburgh (minus Crosby, Malkin and Guentzel) handed them a home loss and rained on their cup parade. They’re going to be in a bad mood. In other ways, it’s good to see the team have to jump in. The team plays better when they “play up”. It’s the games you think should be close that seem to be pretty bad. But, if it’s Boston or Tampa they’re going to come out swinging.
More than anything, I just want to see the team start on time. They’re all excited and that shouldn’t be an issue. Whatever happens game to game, if Detroit is in it start to finish more often than not that’s another big step forward. This one could go either way. The beginning of the season is often full of surprises, so here’s hoping Detroit can bring it against the Lightning.
Detroit Red Wings Blogger • 
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