Dylan Larkin is on the brink of making his return to the Detroit Red Wings, bringing a much-needed boost to the team. The captain shared insights on his recent struggles, following a frustrating injury on March 6 against the Florida Panthers.
As he pulled up for a shot, his right leg buckled awkwardly, sidelining him at a crucial point in the season. For Larkin, 29, this setback came at a time when the Red Wings have historically faced challenges, often missing the playoffs.
Reflecting on the injury, Larkin expressed his frustration: "It was tough to hear the chatter about this part of the season, and to be out at such a critical time was really disheartening," he said after a morning skate at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. "It was a real downer."
Larkin's potential return for Tuesday night's crucial matchup against the Ottawa Senators couldn't be more timely. The Senators, fresh off a win against the New York Rangers, are breathing down the Wings' necks, just a point behind in the standings. With the Red Wings sitting at 38-24-8 and 84 points, they recently slipped from the second wild-card spot after the New York Islanders nudged ahead.
The Eastern Conference playoff race is as tight as it gets, with standings shifting daily. Larkin acknowledged the pressure: "We can't make it with 84 points; no one's getting into the playoffs with that," he noted.
"We have to keep winning and grabbing every point possible. Scoreboard watching isn't fun, but it's the reality this year.
It was similar a few years back. We need to handle our business."
Larkin, who has tallied 28 goals and 27 assists for 55 points in 63 games this season, emphasized the importance of seizing control: "I've been in this position before, saying we have time to manage what we can and control our destiny. I hope we can capitalize on these opportunities and avoid losing control of our fate."
Before his injury, Larkin had been a constant presence, not missing a single game until the recent seven-game absence. His return could be a turning point for the Red Wings as they push for a playoff berth.