What Happened
Dylan Larkin returned to the Detroit lineup for his season debut against the Ottawa Senators and finished with a goal and an assist in a 5-3 Red Wings win. He was named the game's first star. Larkin, who requested a trade over the summer and is no longer captain, was booed early by home fans before cheers replaced them as he produced. He also picked up a roughing penalty after engaging Ridly Greig following a late hit on teammate Alex DeBrincat.
Key Details
- Larkin scored late in the first period to put Detroit ahead 2-1.
- His second-period power-play assist came after his shot rebounded to Viktor Arvidsson.
- Larkin finished with one goal, two points and four shots in over 20 minutes.
- Only Moritz Seider logged more ice time for Detroit.
- Larkin engaged Ridly Greig after a late hit on Alex DeBrincat, earning a roughing penalty.
- Nick Cousins taunted Larkin about losing the captaincy.
What It Means
Larkin remains a central figure in Detroit despite an unresolved trade request made over the summer and the loss of the captaincy. His two-point debut and first-star recognition underlined his on-ice importance to the Red Wings, while the crowd's shift from boos to cheers showed the tension surrounding his status with the team.