Darren McCarty Defends Larkin, Says ‘It’s Time’ For Coaching Change

When Darren McCarty played for the Detroit Red Wings, it was a given that he would stand up for teammates.  Claude Lemieux can testify to that fact.

Nothing has changed.

Even though McCarty hasn’t worn the Winged Wheel since 2008-09,  the four-time Stanley Cup champion stood up for a fellow Red Wing on his Woodward Sports Network show Monday.  McCarty went on a rant in defense of Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin. McCarty was angry over an isolated blow-up on social media about Larkin’s leadership in Detroit’s disappointing season.

“I will not stand by,” McCarty said. “I can’t do anything to protect the kid on the ice. But I will crack a skull off the ice in two seconds.”

While defending Larkin, McCarty also weighed in on Detroit coach Jeff Blashill: “I have no problem with the “fire Blashill” chants. I have no problem with the way (fans) feel about him because he hasn’t gotten the job done. It is time for change. It’s probably time for the whole coaching staff to change.”

McCarty is never timid about speaking his mind.

The original Octopus Thrower article about Larkin’s leadership, which launched the social media kerfuffle, was removed at some point during the day.

“For you young kids, talk to your parents or grandparents, because this is the same garbage talk that as to my first couple of years  when, Oh Steve Yzerman is going to be traded to Ottawa,” McCarty said. “How would that have worked out for you?”

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Right Guy For Job

With regard to Larkin’s leadership, McCarty said: “Let’s worry about other things because that is not an issue. I can’t tolerate stupidity.”

Larkin, 25, generated 69 points in 71 games this season after dealing with a serious neck injury during the offseason. Monday afternoon, the Red Wings announced that Larkin is lost for the season because of core surgery.

“He is 100 percent the only guy for the (captain’s) job, the kid who cares…give him a chance,” McCarty said.

.@DarrenMcCarty still protecting the captain all these years later! #LGRW pic.twitter.com/faP6QgQJXm

— Woodward Sports Network (@woodwardsports) April 18, 2022