Scouting Report: Dylan Larkin, LW, USA U-18

Central Scouting Rank: 17th

Bio

2013-14 Stats

Overview

Larkin is a product of US National Development Program and is committed to the University of Michigan for the 2014-15 season. He played center behind 2015 can't-miss prospect Jack Eichel, and possesses a mix of size and speed that is reminiscent of another American hockey product (see below)

Somewhat undersized to be typified as a power forward, Larkin has displayed an ability to be effective at both ends of the ice, and what he lack in size he makes up for in hard work.

"He's a throwback - he gets the puck and goes with it," said Michigan head coach Red Berenson. "He has the offensive skills to be a great player, the speed, and he's continuing to grow his game. He's going to be a good fit.

A Michigan native, Larkin may be ripe for the picking by the Detroit Red Wings with the 15th overall pick; if not then, his game is well suited for a team like the Columbus Blue Jackets, who will pick 16th. If those teams don't jump on him, he's sure to be snagged before the end of the opening round.

Pro Comparison

Max Pacioretty, Ryan Callahan

Scouts Are Saying

Craig Button, TSN

Larkin has the ability to play the game at a very high pace, with tempo and intensity. Combine that with very good hockey sense and his impact becomes significant. He wants to make a difference in the game.

Corey Pronman, ESPN

Larkin is one of the top power forwards available in this year's draft class, and is an outstanding skater ... He has a fine but not outstanding amount of skill, but gains the offensive zone very often due to his skating ability. Larkin has average size, but he's pretty strong on the puck and has a fantastic on-ice work ethic. He drives the net, muscles out opponents in battles and gets back on defense effectively. He kills penalties well and he can be a shorthanded scoring threat.

 Chris Dilks, SBNCollegeHockey.com

He’s a smooth skater that is very strong on his skates, and while he’s not as flashy as Schmaltz, he was nearly as effective in terms of creating offense. He plays like a pro player already. There’s become a bit of a bias against NCAA players in the first round of the which could push Larkin towards the very edge of the first round, but he’ll be a steal for whichever team takes him.

Highlights