The Detroit Red Wings have missed the playoffs for the past seven seasons and their captain Dylan Larkin is tired of waiting for playoff games for the first time since the spring of 2016.
Michigan general manager Steve Yzerman added some key pieces to the puzzle over the summer, including forward Alex DeBrincat and defenseman Jeff Petry. With the presence of other talented hockey players like Andrew Copp and himself, number 71 believes his team has the wherewithal to return to the playoffs in 2023-2024.
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“When the boys came back into town to get their skates on the ice, I saw something bigger… apart from Alex [DeBrincat]. Unless he can take it. However, there are impressive bodies and long wearing times in the back. In my opinion, it’s very difficult to deal with these big players when they’re moving well,” the forward told NHL.com this week on the sidelines of a National League media activity in Las Vegas.
“I’m very excited. We’ve really improved our group at the back and it’s going to be huge. This will help everyone,” he added, pointing to the arrival of Petry, Shayne Gostisbehere and Justin Holl in defense, as well as goalkeeper James Reimer, who will support Ville Husso.
Keep making progress
The Wings have improved their scoring in recent seasons, collecting 80 points last year, six more than in the previous calendar. Still, competition will be fierce in the Atlantic Division with rivals like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers, who were unfortunate Stanley Cup finalists a few years ago. Detroit finished seventh in the division in 2022-23, a dozen points out of a playoff spot.
The condition of the troops will certainly be crucial during this long marathon that begins with training camp. Larkin is encouraged by analyzing the club’s progress and expects more.
“I think we have made some progress in the last few years. I am optimistic, but we must remain united. We have to stay healthy and everything has to be right at the same time. Long slides should be avoided. Therefore, there are many points to consider on our side,” he emphasized.