Early buzz vaults Wings’ Larkin into top rookie talk
Detroit — Suddenly, it’s fair to wonder.
Dylan Larkin is a strong candidate to win the Calder Trophy (rookie of the year).
A fine start and Tuesday’s injury that knocked No. 1 pick Connor McDavid (broken clavicle) out for two to three months opens the door for Larkin.
Larkin, who added another early-season highlight Tuesday with his second consecutive winning goal, has nine points (four goals) in 12 games and ranks second in the NHL with a plus-10 rating.
Still, Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill knows there’s plenty to work on.
“He’s done a very good job, that’s undeniable,” Blashill said. “Does he have to get better at stuff? Absolutely. Was there lots of stuff over the first two periods (Tuesday) I thought he has to continue to improve at? One hundred percent.
“Our job as coaches is to make sure we continue to hold him accountable as he is having success just like we hold anybody else accountable, and we will do that. He’ll continue to improve because he wants to improve.”
And where, specifically, does Larkin need to get better?
“There’s lots of little things, making sure stopping the puck, (or) managing the game,” Blashill said. “Sometimes you have to just live another day and take your ice back, and not giving up an odd-numbered rush.”
Veteran Red Wings players have been impressed with Larkin’s attitude and competitiveness.
“He’s such a great kid,” goaltender Jimmy Howard said. “He just uses his speed to his advantage, flying. I don’t think a lot of goaltenders have realized yet how deceptive of a shot he actually has. He can get it off quick, get it off in small areas and he’s pretty accurate with it.
“He’s fun to watch.”
For his part, Larkin continues to take everything in stride.
In fact, when analyzing his 12-game debut, Larkin admits it hasn’t been all smooth.
“There have been a few tough ones,” Larkin said. “I guess it’s going pretty well. ... I’m looking forward to the next few weeks. We’ve got a grind of a schedule (coming up), so it’ll be fun to play a few more games.”
Ice chips
Kyle Quincey, out since Oct. 23 with a concussion, is symptom-free, but is bothered by an ankle injury. The injury is not to the ankle Quincey had bone spurs removed from last summer. He will be evaluated to determine if surgery is needed.
... Pavel Datsyuk (ankle surgery) continues to skate and could return next week.
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