Dylan Larkin Poised for Breakout Role as Team USA Eyes Olympic Gold
Team USA is heading into the Olympic men’s ice hockey tournament with one goal in mind: gold. It’s been over four decades since the iconic “Miracle on Ice” in 1980, and this year’s squad is built to contend. With a deep, star-powered roster and sky-high expectations, the U.S. enters the tournament with the second-best odds to win it all-trailing only their long-time rivals to the north, Canada.
At the heart of this American push is Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin, a player whose international résumé is about to get a major boost. While he’s long been a reliable two-way center in the NHL, Larkin now finds himself in a pivotal role on a U.S. team that’s loaded with high-end talent. And if things break right, this could be the tournament where Larkin’s name becomes a fixture on the global stage.
Centering a Dangerous Third Line
Larkin will open the tournament anchoring Team USA’s third line, skating between Winnipeg sniper Kyle Connor and Buffalo’s dynamic forward Tage Thompson. That trio gives the Americans a legitimate scoring threat beyond their top-six-a luxury not many teams can boast. It’s a line built on speed, skill, and finish, and it’s one that could be a matchup nightmare for opponents trying to contain the U.S.’s top two units.
The coaching staff is also using this setup to manage Larkin’s minutes early in the tournament. But don’t be surprised if his role expands. He’s already shown during the 4 Nations Face-Off that he can slide up the lineup when needed, and with his speed and smarts, he’s a plug-and-play option in just about any situation.
Power Play Presence
Where Larkin’s impact could be felt most is on special teams. He’s expected to center the second power play unit-a group that might be labeled “second” in name only. Flanked by Jack Hughes on the right and Matt Boldy on the left, with Quinn Hughes quarterbacking from the blue line and Thompson adding another weapon, this unit is stacked with creativity and firepower.
Larkin’s job here is to be the glue-winning draws, making quick reads, and exploiting seams in coverage. It’s a role that suits his game to a tee. He’s not just a facilitator; he’s a threat to finish himself, especially in tight spaces and off the rush.
Key Role on the Kill
Larkin’s two-way game doesn’t stop at the power play. He’s also expected to log key minutes on the penalty kill, where he’ll be paired with Rangers captain J.T.
Miller on the second forward unit. With Noah Hanifin and Charlie McAvoy handling defensive duties behind them, this group brings grit, positioning, and the ability to flip the ice in a heartbeat.
Larkin’s experience in Detroit-where he’s often tasked with shutting down top lines-makes him a natural fit in this role. His anticipation and stick work are elite, and he’s more than capable of turning a blocked shot or intercepted pass into a shorthanded scoring chance.
The Road Ahead
Team USA’s group stage won’t be a cakewalk. They open the tournament against Latvia, a nation that’s steadily climbed the international ranks. Then it’s Denmark on Saturday, before wrapping up the round-robin with a back-to-back against Germany-led by NHL superstar Leon Draisaitl.
All games are scheduled for 3:10 p.m. EST, and every shift will matter.
With such a tightly packed schedule, depth and flexibility are going to be critical-and that’s where players like Larkin come in. He’s the kind of player who can wear multiple hats and never miss a beat.
Projected Line Combinations vs. Latvia
Forward Lines:
- B.
Tkachuk - Eichel - M. Tkachuk
- Guentzel - Matthews - Boldy
- Connor - Larkin - Thompson
- Miller - Nelson - J. Hughes
- Keller/Trocheck (extra)
Defense Pairs:
- Q.
Hughes - McAvoy
- Slavin - Faber
- Hanifin - Werenski
- Sanderson - Lacombe (extra)
Goalies:
- Hellebuyck
- Oettinger
Projected Special Teams Units
First Power Play:
- Guentzel - Matthews - M.
Tkachuk
- Eichel - Werenski
Second Power Play:
- Boldy - Larkin - J.
Hughes
- Thompson - Q.
Hughes
First Penalty Kill:
- Nelson - Boldy
- Slavin - Faber
Second Penalty Kill:
- Larkin - Miller
- Hanifin - McAvoy
With a roster this deep and a player like Larkin ready to shine in multiple roles, Team USA has the tools to make a serious run. Whether it’s on the power play, penalty kill, or at even strength, Larkin is set to be one of the tournament’s most quietly impactful players. And if the Americans find themselves standing atop the podium when it’s all said and done, don’t be surprised if Larkin’s fingerprints are all over that success.