Dylan Larkin Reflects on Red Wings’ Missed Playoff Chances

Dylan Larkin, the enduring captain of the Detroit Red Wings, has faced the weight of the franchise’s struggles more than any other player. As the last remaining member of the team that last reached the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2016, Larkin is acutely aware of the disappointment that comes with another missed postseason.

This season, Larkin reached a personal milestone, netting a career-high 34 goals. However, a critical injury hindered his ability to lead his team during a pivotal stretch. Despite his resilience in pushing through the pain, he could not guide the Red Wings to the finish line.

Now, the Red Wings find themselves with the unfortunate title of having the longest active postseason drought in the NHL, a distinction that stings even more as the Buffalo Sabres ended their own 12-year absence from the playoffs. Reflecting on the season’s conclusion, Larkin expressed his frustration, saying, “It’s been hard, not great. I think it’s been a very difficult end to the season. Never a fun time when you miss the playoffs, but especially in this fashion, and kind of being here again. So today is not a pleasant day around the rink, that’s for sure.”

As the team navigated a challenging March, they often found themselves in deep holes against rivals in the standings. Head coach Todd McLellan pushed for a higher level of effort, while discussions about external pressures creeping into the locker room became increasingly prevalent. Larkin acknowledged the struggles, stating, “I think, like I said, part of the tightness was kind of dipping your toe into a game, and when you’re anxious for a game, there are tendencies as a player to go out there and see what it’s going to be like. Is it going to be a hard night or an easy night? Again, I don’t think that was the story every night.”

As captain since the start of the 2021-22 season, Larkin took ownership of the shortcomings, recognizing his role in setting the tone for the team. “But especially at home, down the stretch, you have to know going into a game that you’re going to go out there, and part of that is on me as captain of the team, a forward that plays a driving game,” he admitted. He understands that his early contributions could have influenced the team’s performance throughout the lineup.

Growing up a Red Wings fan during their glory years, Larkin carries the legacy of former captains like Steve Yzerman, Nicklas Lidstrom, and Henrik Zetterberg. His commitment to the franchise was solidified with an eight-year extension signed in 2023. “I wanted to be here, and I want to be here to help this team in any way I can to win the Stanley Cup,” he stated emphatically. “We need to get the Detroit Red Wings back in the playoffs. Not just me.”

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.