Dylan Larkin THW Close-Up:
Date of birth: 7/30/1996
Place of birth: Detroit, Michigan
Ht: 6’1″ Wt: 192 lbs
Shoots: Left
Position: C/LW
NHL Draft Eligibility: 2014
Twitter: @DylanLarkin39
THW The Next Ones Rankings (January 2014): 28
Other Rankings:
THW War Room Rankings (April): 22
Craig Button: 19
CS Final Rankings for North American skaters: 17
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The USNTDP seems to be churning talent out year in and year out. This year is no exception. The player most likely to be the 1st NTDP player selected in the draft is 6’1″ center, Dylan Larkin.
Larkin is already built for the NHL. A proven scorer, Larkin was able to rack up 31 goals this season. He thinks the game at a high level, and as a result creates chances for himself and teammates. Weighing in at 192 lbs., Larkin uses his body well to control the puck from defenders. He battles every shift and he is relentless.
He’s rounded out his game nicely in his two years with the NTDP. He’s a solid defensive player and a leader for his teammates. He wheels around the ice with his short, strong legs and has even better balance on his skates. Committed to the University of Michigan, Larkin still has some developing to do, but should turn out to be a great 2nd line center down the road.
Where Will He End Up In June:
Given where he’s ranked, he’ll probably end up being selected anywhere from picks #15 to #25.
Scout’s Honor:
“Larkin has shown he can be an elite-level power forward in addition to showing a high level of offensive ability. His ability to take the puck hard to the net allows for unique scoring chances most players would not be able get because of a lack of size and strength.”
Aaron Vickers – Future Considerations
“Two-way player at the centre position who displays excellent balance and jump all over the 200 foot sheet. Sees the ice well and makes plays in the offensive zone with both skill and grit. Plays strong on the puck and shows some snarl in the battle zones.”
Bill Placzek – Draftsite.com
Statistics:
Bio/Interview(s)/Links:
Interview with Not Your Average Hockey Blog
Profile on Last Word On Sports
International Tournaments:
Larking played for the U17 and U18 Team USA winning a bronze medal and a gold medal.
ETA:
2-3 years
Risk/Reward Analysis:
Risk: 1.5/5 Reward: 4/5
NHL Potential:
2nd line tw0-way center
Strengths:
Size
Strength
Skating
Speed
Goal scoring
Hockey sense/IQ
Defensive awareness
Flaws/Aspects He Needs To Work On:
Adding physicality to his game as he grows
Fantasy Hockey Potential:
Offensive: 7/10 Defensive: 6/10
NHL Player Comparison:
– NHL comparison: Mikko Koivu
Video(s):
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THW’s The Next Ones prospect profile template design architect: Chris Ralph
Follow Shawn on Twitter: @ShawnTHW
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