The Journey: Dylan Larkin
Kevin LeBlanc
2015-06-20
Looking ahead to the fantasy upside of Dylan Larkin …
In this week's edition of The Journey we take a look at Detroit's Dylan Larkin, a hometown product that will have a big impact on the Red Wings future.
As a native of Waterford, Michigan, Larkin grew up with the Detroit Red Wings organization right in his backyard. From a young age, he was a member of the vaunted Belle Tire 96's playing alongside fellow prospects Alex Nedeljkovic, Zach Werenski, Ryan Mantha and Brendan Perlini.
His path next led him to the US National Team Development Program in Ann Arbor, Michigan. With the U18 National team, Larkin often played second fiddle to the top line of Jack Eichel, Alex Tuch, and Sonny Milano. Even though he was the second-line center and often tabbed in a shut down role, he still managed to thrive offensively, putting up 56 points in 60 games. It was in Ann Arbor where Larkin developed the two-way game he possesses today.
After being selected as the 15th overall pick in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, there may not be another American prospect outside of Eichel that had a better 2014-15 season then Larkin.
Dobber Prospect Rank: 36th overall prospect in Dobber Hockey's Top 215
Fantasy Outlook: A-
Pros: Speed, Possession, Playmaking, Compete Level, Leadership
Cons: Continue to improve strength and face-off ability
Anticipated NHL Arrival: My personal feeling is Larkin spends time with the Red Wings in 2015-16. However, he could start the season in Grand Rapids, if Detroit sticks with their philosophy of bringing prospects along slowly.
Highlights:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1Xpy07SuT0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU2VyS6pAUY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0ThghQHR4Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSAoXup0jw4
Give Kevin a follow @kleblanchockey for NHL prospect talk and happenings.