x

Already member? Login first!

Comments / New

2014 NHL Draft Profile: Dylan Larkin

Specs

Team: USNDTP (USHL)

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

DOB: July 30, 1996

Height: 6’0″

Weight: 184

Shoots: Left

Projected: mid-late first round

Profile

University of Michigan commit Dylan Larkin has had a successful season playing center behind future NHL superstar Jack Eichel (though he could be better suited at left wing at the NHL level). Larkin’s biggest asset is his speed which he uses along with his size and hands to create chances for he and his teammates. He reminds me a lot of Nashville’s Craig Smith. Both are speedy players and they both have a nice blend of scoring and playmaking ability, as well as a willingness to take a hit to make a play.

Quotes

“He’s probably one of the best skaters we’ve had come through in a long time but he’s also diligent; he’s interested in his defensive zone. He wants to be a Steve Yzerman-type player.”

USNDTP Head Coach Danton Cole

“He skates well and has great closing speed, uses his body well. He has skill, but is not afraid of using physical play for puck possession. He has good vision and playmaking.”

David Gregory

“He has the offence, can score and skate, but he’s also learned the little subtleties needed to play the center position. He’s taken an unbelievable mature approach; kind of an NHL-repertoire approach to practices and games. He’s training to be really good at it and his progress has been great.”

Danton Cole

Video

Where He Would Fit

I can all but guarantee you the Predators will not be taking Larkin, but if they did they would get a player that would fit very well into the current Predators team. In a period of transition, the Predators need to take stock of what they already have and build upon that. Right now they have a nice blend of physicality and speed. Larkin would not only add to that, he would bring some offense as well.