Larkin reacts to 'We want Larkin' chants at Bell Centre
Montreal fans called for the Detroit forward during Saturday’s game, and Larkin praised their passion afterward.
Dylan Larkin acknowledged the Bell Centre crowd after Montreal Canadiens fans chanted "We want Larkin" during Saturday's game against the Detroit Red Wings.
The NHL's game report noted the chants on his first couple of shifts. Sportsnet reported that they had begun before the game and continued through the evening.
Larkin said the reception surprised him and praised the supporters' knowledge and enthusiasm.
"In my opinion, this is the best atmosphere in hockey," he said, according to the NHL.
He added that he returned his attention to the game after a few seconds. Larkin was playing his third consecutive game after missing Detroit's first two games following his trade request and departure from the captaincy, the NHL reported.
Red Wings coach Todd McLellan told Sportsnet that players and staff had tried to help one another stay focused amid the attention surrounding Larkin. McLellan also expressed frustration with continuing to discuss the situation.
Montreal won 1-0 in a shootout.
