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The Detroit Red Wings are outside of the playoff picture with just 12 games left to play. However, the team may be getting a significant boost for the final stretch. Captain Dylan Larkin has been designated as a game time decision, nearly two weeks ahead of schedule. Still, Larkin’s availability isn’t a guarantee with a major conference showdown about to start.
Detroit is one point outside of the wild card race and facing the Ottawa Senators. Ottawa is just one point behind Detroit. A regulation win could put Detroit back into the playoff picture. However, a regulation loss could put the post season all but out of reach. This Atlantic Conference showdown needs to feel like an elimination game, because it well could be.
The Red Wings are trying to avoid a 10th straight miss of the post season. Detroit has played some of their best hockey in over a decade this season, but it may not be enough. This year’s playoff entry is more difficult than in years past, and the competition is fierce. Still, Detroit has played well enough to be in the mix at this late point in the season.
Dylan Larkin could tip the scales
The Red Wings have taken a major hit at the center position because of injuries. Larkin, along with Andrew Copp, both were injured and the team struggled greatly. The return of Copp helped the team, but the deficit at center is still a major issue. Larkin has been strong in the faceoff dot, and is just two goals shy of a fifth straight 30 goal season. However, his presence in the room is possibly his greatest strength.
Larkin began the season pushing the belief that this team could make the playoffs. Throughout training camp and pre season his confidence was contagious within the room. Similarly, on the bench and on the ice Larkin is vocal and fiercely competitive. The team needs every bit of energy they can muster, and the Captain brings plenty to the table.
Larkin skated on a line with Emmitt Finnie and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard during practice. However, MBN is just a place holder as Lucas Raymond took a maintenance day off. Larkin and Raymond have been a steady combination for Detroit for the past few seasons, and bring a different dynamic. In short, Detroit’s top six is a lot stronger if Larkin is in the mix.
Axel Sandin-Pellikka sent to Grand Rapids
The Red Wings had another big announcement yesterday, but a very different feeling on this one. Axel Sandin-Pellikka has been assigned to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL. ASP suited up for 63 NHL games, but has been a healthy scratch for the past seven games. The team had done a brief assignment for ASP to Grand Rapids at the trade deadline to make him eligible to play for the Griffins.
The move may be disappointing to ASP, however it may be the best option at this point. Todd McLellan has been reluctant to use the rookie in the lineup during this critical stretch. Therefore, ASP’s only chance for ice time is with the club’s AHL affiliate. The Griffins are in action tonight as they face off against the Milwaukee Admirals.
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