Dylan Larkin Breaks Silence on Canadiens Fans Chanting ‘We Want Larkin’

Detroit Red Wings player Dylan Larkin has been subjected to boos following his request for a trade this offseason, but he encountered an unexpected response during the team's game against the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday. Rather than jeers, the Canadiens' supporters repeatedly chanted "WE WANT LAR-KIN!" throughout the first two periods at the Bell Centre.

Following a 1-0 loss for Detroit in a shootout, Larkin discussed the unusual reception and admitted it was something he never expected to experience in his NHL career. Speaking to reporters after the game, he acknowledged that the chants caught him off guard, but he also expressed appreciation for Montreal's passionate fanbase. He remarked, "It was interesting.

I mean, I never would have imagined that in this building and in my career. But they’re passionate fans. It’s one of the best, the best atmosphere in hockey. They’re knowledgeable and they love their team. So that’s how I read into it." Larkin's teammate, Lucas Raymond, also commented on the chants, stating that the players were more focused on the game and the on-ice situation.

The response to Larkin's request for a trade came one night after Canadiens fans publicly campaigned for the Red Wings center during the game. While it's clear that Montreal fans have made their feelings known, there's a significant obstacle preventing a potential trade: Larkin has a full no-trade clause in his eight-year contract, and Montreal is not among the teams he would currently approve a trade to.

Despite the chants, Larkin reiterated that he remains with the Red Wings and declined to speculate on the possibility of playing for the Canadiens.