Dylan Larkin’s path to the NHL was direct and short, and coaches and programs in Michigan provided a way.
Among the Red Wings scoring leaders with six points, five games into his first season, Larkin, 19, is also helping defy a general policy of the franchise, one that has served it well: Patient, sustained development of young talent in Grand Rapids and Toledo.
Larkin is the first teenager in the Wings’ lineup since Jiri Hudler in the 2003-04 season.
Playing mostly on the top line with Henrik Zetterberg and Justin Abdelkader, his speed and skill are apparent.