Detroit Red Wings coach Todd McLellan anticipates it will be a gametime decision whether Dylan Larkin will play Tuesday’s home game against the Ottawa Senators.
The Detroit captain practiced Monday on a line with Emmitt Finnie and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard.
“I’m confident that (Larkin’s) improving,” McLellan said. “He’s confident that he’s improving. He had a good practice today, but I can’t tell you whether he’ll be in or not. I don’t know that that answer right now.”
With the Red Wings possibly needing six or seven wins in their remaining 12 games, the need for Larkin’s return as soon as possible is critical.
“Ever since he’s been down, it’s a big hole in the lineup and obviously as our leader, our captain too,” Detroit veteran Patrick Kane said. “I think a lot of us wanted to play for him in some way or another to put us into a good enough spot where when he’s coming back. We’re still in the thick of things. I’m not sure what his status is going forward and whatnot, but it’s always great to see him out there. “
Sandin-Pellikka Heading to GR
Missing three centers (Michael Rasmussen is still out), the Red Wings have fallen one point of the playoff position. The Senators are only three points behind Detroit.
McLellan said Brandsegg-Nygard is still day-to-day. “He’s working his way through his injury. We have to get him healthy before we can even make those decisions.”
Lucas Raymond didn’t practice, but McLellan said he was given a maintenance day.
In other news, the Red Wings sent Axel Sandin Pellikka to the Grand Rapids Griffins. The Red Wings are pleased with his development this season, and they don’t want him sitting out the rest of the season. It is better for his growth as a player to continue be playing in all situations in the American Hockey League.