Photo credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Detroit Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan is facing a logistical headache as his captain remains stuck on the East Coast.
While the Olympic flame has been extinguished, a massive winter storm is now dictating the team’s schedule.
Dylan Larkin is currently unable to return to Detroit due to a severe blizzard that has grounded flights across the Atlantic seaboard. The storm has created whiteout conditions and treacherous travel, leaving the gold medalist in limbo.
McLellan admitted Monday that he is unsure exactly when Larkin will touch down in Michigan. However, the bench boss is maintaining a crisp outlook for the team’s return to game action.
#RedWings McLellan said he’s not sure when Larkin will be back in town due to the winter storm on the East Coast. But he expects him to be in Ottawa Thursday for their first game out of the break. Seider and Raymond will return to practice tomorrow.
The Red Wings are currently holding a slim lead in the Atlantic Division and cannot afford a slow start. Getting the “heartbeat” of the team back for the clash against the Senators is the top priority.
Larkin is coming off an emotional high in Milan, where he led all Olympic skaters in faceoff percentage. His 69.6% success rate at the dot was a massive catalyst for Team USA’s gold medal run.
Dylan Larkin forcing the Detroit Red Wings into a hard decision
Over his NHL career, Larkin has been the engine of this franchise. His presence on the top line and the penalty kill is impossible to replace, especially in a rivalry game on the road.
While the captain is sidelined by weather, other Olympians are beginning to filter back. Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider are both expected to return to the ice for practice tomorrow.
The team has been enjoying a resurgent season under McLellan, but the “Olympic hangover” combined with travel chaos is a major test. Detroit needs to find their rhythm quickly to protect their playoff positioning.
McLellan is preparing the group as if Larkin will be available, but contingency plans are in place. The roster freeze lifted last night, though Steve Yzerman seems content with his current core.
The storm is expected to taper off by Tuesday night. For now, the Wings are playing a waiting game with their most important player.
Previously on Detroit Hockey Insider
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