Todd McLellan Reveals How Red Wings Players Reacted to Dylan Larkin Behind the Bench

Dylan Larkin's emotional season debut with the Detroit Red Wings was met with mixed reactions from fans at Little Caesars Arena. While some booed him during his opening shift, according to head coach Todd McLellan, his teammates were rallying around him. "I can tell you on the bench his teammates were rallying around him. They believe we’re a better team with him than without him, and the rest of the group was happy for him," McLellan said.

Larkin provided several moments to rally around, including his first goal of the season late in the first period, an assist later in the game, and standing up for a teammate during a confrontation with Ottawa Senators player Ridly Greig. McLellan praised Larkin for his actions, stating that trust must be earned through actions. Despite the hostility from some fans, Larkin's teammates appeared to be focused on supporting their former captain and the team's success.