Detroit Captain Faces Pressure Ahead of Stadium Series Showdown

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin is under scrutiny following a lackluster performance as his team prepares for a critical rematch against the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Eastern Conference rivals will clash in the 2025 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series at Ohio Stadium on Saturday at 6 p.m. ET.

In a recent game on Thursday, the Red Wings fell 5-2 to the Blue Jackets at Little Caesars Arena, with Larkin’s performance drawing criticism from head coach Todd McLellan. McLellan described Larkin as ‘missing’ during the game, prompting a conversation between the two ahead of the pivotal rematch.

“It was an easy conversation,” McLellan said. “He’s our captain, he cares, he’s committed to doing things right. He had an off night, we all do.”

Despite the criticism, Larkin remained focused and understood the stakes of the upcoming match. The game holds significant implications as both teams are jockeying for playoff positioning, currently tied for the first wild card spot in the Eastern Conference with 66 points each.

“A win allows us to control our own destiny,” Larkin said. “I understand why [McLellan] said it. I hold myself to a high standard, and I wasn’t happy with my performance.”

In the loss against Columbus, Larkin recorded no points, a minus-3 rating, and struggled at the face-off dot, winning just four of nine draws. He expressed a need to rediscover his form after returning from the Four Nations Face-Off, where he played for Team USA.

“I’ve got to learn from yesterday and improve,” forward J.T. Compher stated. “Dylan is our leader on and off the ice. Everyone in the locker room knows what he’s capable of.”

The stakes are heightened as the Red Wings aim to avoid a repeat of last season’s collapse, which saw them miss the playoffs after being in the mix earlier in the year. Larkin, currently second on the team with 53 points, is looking to bounce back against a Blue Jackets team that has also been performing well.

With more than 90,000 fans expected at Ohio Stadium for the outdoor game, the atmosphere will be electric. The matchup celebrates the historic rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State, and players from both teams are eager for the unique experience.

“It’s special to play in front of such a large crowd,” Larkin expressed. “I’m excited to see what it’s like for a hockey game.”

The Red Wings and Blue Jackets both entered the rematch after displaying impressive form over the past months, making the stadium series game even more significant.

As for Larkin, he aims to translate the intensity of the occasion into a standout performance, putting the captaincy and leadership skills on display before a massive audience.