Dylan Larkin evolves into Red Wings’ marathon man

DETROIT, MI –

Dylan Larkin played more minutes against the Lightning Monday than ever in his career, and his extra work in the offseason is what helped make the night a success.

If Larkin keeps it up, he may turn the ore of a good player into the steel of a great one.

What the Red Wings prize about Larkin, beyond his skill, is his willingness to work. His capacity for it seems to come almost instinctive.

One look at Larkin in the dressing room this early season made plain he is a bigger man, significantly more muscular.

It is the product of extra work in the offseason, and it made his 24:33 time on ice against an offensive juggernaut of a lineup feel routine.