UPDATE: With the 15th pick in the 2014 #NHLDraft, the #RedWings select Dylan Larkin #ATTExtCov
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) June 28, 2014
The Red Wings have drafted winger Dylan Larkin with their first pick in this years draft. Larkin played this past season for the U.S. national development U-18 team. This past season, Larkin scored 31 goals and 56 points in 60 games for the U-18 team.
Larkin shoots left, is about 6’1”, and weighs around 190 pounds.
Unlike previous years, the Wings actually kept their draft pick, and did not trade down. This makes Larkin the highest Wings’ pick since Martin Lapointe was drafted 10th overall in 1991.
As you may have heard, Larkin is from Waterford in Michigan, and is committed to playing for the University of Michigan next season. He has said the regardless of where he is drafted that he wants to play for the Wolverines next season. The hometown connection for Larkin was probably one of the biggest reasons why the Wings ended up drafting him.
USA Today’s Kevin Allen had the Wings’ drafting Larkin in his mock draft. This is what he said:
The dependable two-way forward would fit perfectly into Detroit’s puck-possession offense. He’s a good skater.
It is hard to judge a pick this early on, but I am happy with the Wings’ decision. I have to admit, I was hoping for Holland to trade down, but out of the available options at #15, Larkin was the best option. He may not have been the best player available, but it made more sense to draft him than any of the other prospects.
You can follow Dylan on Twitter @Dylanlarkin39.
We will have a more in-depth analysis of Larkin up, and will keep you updated on any other picks made by the Wings today and tomorrow.
