Detroit Red Wings fans are getting a firsthand look at the challenges of returning from injury, as two of the team's core players, Dylan Larkin and Simon Edvinsson, work their way back into form.
Captain Dylan Larkin is back on the ice after missing seven games due to a lower-body injury. Defenseman Simon Edvinsson also returned post-Olympic break following knee surgery. However, it's clear that neither player has fully regained their pre-injury form.
During a tough 5-1 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Larkin visibly struggled, even crawling back to the bench in pain at one point. His speed, usually his greatest asset, seems diminished.
Red Wings coach Todd McLellan acknowledged Larkin's grit but noted the challenges. "We give him credit for pushing through, but he's not at 100% yet," McLellan said. Larkin's speed is his trademark, and without it, he's missing that crucial edge.
The expectation remains high for players returning from injury. Once they're back in the lineup, they're expected to perform.
"If you're gonna put the gear on, you have to be real good and positionally sound," McLellan added. "We’ll manage his minutes, but we expect the best from him."
Larkin agreed with his coach's assessment, recognizing the need to elevate his game. "I got to win way more battles for these guys than I did [Tuesday] and even [Saturday] night against Philly," he admitted. "Leading by winning battles and keeping the puck is key."
Edvinsson is facing similar struggles. His two-way play, usually solid, has shown vulnerabilities since his return. In a 4-2 loss to Boston, he backed off defensively, allowing Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov to score the game-winning goal.
Despite the setbacks, Larkin dismissed any injury-related excuses for the team's recent struggles. "I’m not going to talk about that right now," Larkin said. "We have more hockey in front of us."
The Red Wings have their work cut out for them as they look to get their key players back to top form and push forward in the season.