The Detroit News’s Ted Kulfan filed a meaty notebook article in which he discusses Dylan Larkin’s take on the NHL not going to the Olympics, among other topics:
“It would have been an honor to go and represent the U.S.,” Larkin said Monday after the Wings’ practice. “I would have absolutely jumped on that opportunity. Like everyone says, it’s disappointing. I haven’t had the chance to represent the United States in a best-on-best tournament, and it would have been one of the greatest honors of my career, so far.”
Larkin has represented the U.S at men’s and junior world championships, but not the Olympics. With 15 goals and 29 points in 27 games, Larkin is off to one of his best starts in his pro career. He was a favorite to land a Team USA roster spot.
This was expected to be one of the most talent-laden Olympic tournaments ever, with stars such as Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews, Nathan McKinnon, Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin and Patrick Kane all either in their prime, or still playing at a high level. There is a sliver of hope these Winter Olympics may still be postponed until 2023, but the chances are remote and no one is certain COVID becomes a non-issue at that point.
Many players are touting having a best-against-best tournament, such as another World Cup, to grow the game and fill the void of these Olympics.
“Hopefully they can figure something out to get the best players in this game to play each other for their home countries in the near future,” Larkin said. “It would be great for the game.”
Makes complete sense for NHLers not to go, but it sure is a bummer. A world cup of hockey next summer is very much needed.