Feb 20, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; [Imagn Images direct customers only] United States forward Dylan Larkin (21) during the 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey championship game against Canada at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images

Right after their first Olympic practice, Team USA confirmed that the Detroit Red Wings captain, Dylan Larkin, was snubbed for a greater role on the team.

Team USA members flew to Italy yesterday and finally had their first practice today ahead of the start of the Men’s Ice Hockey Preliminary Round, set to start on Wednesday.

After practice, the team confirmed who would be on the leadership group for the Olympics, and the announcement surprised a few people.

Team USA Snubs Dylan Larkin From Leadership Group

Indeed, after losing the 4-Nation Face-Off Finals against Canada, Team USA decided to bring back the same leadership group, consisting of Auston Matthews as captain, with Charlie McAvoy and Matthew Tkachuk as alternate captains.

“Auston, Charlie, and Matthew did a great job in leading our team a year ago at the 4 Nations Face-Off, and it’s great to have them back in those roles for the Olympics.

They all bring different leadership traits to the table, and I know all three are excited, as is our whole team, about representing our country as part of Team USA.”

Considering the past results, some fans hoped to see some changes, but that’s not what happened.

Despite being a game-changer for Team USA at the 4 Nations, Dylan Larkin, the Wings captain, didn’t make the cut.

He had notably helped Team USA win the first game against Canada by beating Jordan Binnington with an elite shot:

What will also be interesting to see is what kind of role Larkin ends up filling for his country on the ice.

Considering the elite offensive talent on the team, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him on the bottom six in a more defensive role than what he usually brings to the table.

Previously on Detroit Hockey Insider

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Red Wings’ Dylan Larkin snubbed from Team USA leadership group in upcoming Olympics

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