The 4 Nations Face-Off is just around the corner, and excitement has been building as teams are completing their rosters. With elite-level NHL talent hitting the ice, fans expected Team USA to assemble a powerhouse roster ready to battle at the highest level. But when the rumored line combinations surfaced, it wasn’t the star-studded names that garnered the attention—it was the unexpected position of Dylan Larkin.
A proven leader and offensive threat with the Detroit Red Wings, Larkin has been one of USA’s most dynamic two-way forwards for years. Yet, instead of cementing a top-six role, he was rotating on the fourth line and sharing time with Chris Kreider and Brock Nelson. For many fans, this was nothing short of an egregious mistake that did one of the country’s best players a disservice.
When the projected lines for Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off were released, the fans’ reaction was muted. With megastars Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews, and Jack Hughes set to shine at the tournament, expectations were high. But instead of excitement, controversy burst forth when it was announced that Dylan Larkin had a place in the lineup.
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— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) February 10, 2025
The Detroit Red Wings’ captain and leading-producing, consistent American forward in the NHL was rotating on the fourth line with Chris Kreider and Brock Nelson. Many felt this was a massive snub given his production, elite two-way play, and possession-driving skills. Instead of rewarding his ability, Team USA’s staff appeared to push him aside in a lesser role—much to the dismay of fans, who voiced their displeasure loudly.
“Larkin on the fourth line?”: Fans call it ‘Criminal’
The criticism from fans came quickly: “The Larkin disrespect is unreal“. Many pointed to Larkin’s recent performance and strong numbers and asked how he ended up rotating on the fourth line instead of seizing a top-six position. “Call me a homer, but Larks on the 4th line is criminal,” one fan wrote, echoing the outrage of many. Others joined in with the same view, referring to his positive games: “No way Larkin should be rotating.”
Fans also pointed to Larkin’s statistical advantage over some of the forwards who were ranked above him. “Larkin has been lights out lately,” said one commenter, while another noted, “Larkin deserves to be higher up, and the stats prove it.”
Beyond just being offense statistics that are offending, his two-way impact was a talking point for his supporters. “Larkin rotating on the fourth seems odd considering he’s got the best points per game and defensive game of anyone in the bottom six.” The defensive responsibility he provides should have, in their minds, earned a larger role.
While Team USA supporters argued over their lineups, Team Canada supporters took a moment to pile on. With McDavid, Crosby, and Makar leading the way, belief in Canada’s dominance was stronger than ever. “Ya I’ll take Team Canada. And it’s not close.” a fan simply put. With some of Team USA’s most notable playmakers being put in suspect spots, most thought Canada’s firepower would be too much to handle.
Meanwhile, some USA fans hoped that Larkin would get an upgrade as the tournament progressed. “I think Larkin works his way into the top 6 and makes a name for himself. Not that he hasn’t already, but his career has lacked big game opportunities, and now he will finally get some.”
As the tournament approaches, the debate regarding Team USA’s lineup will only intensify. The decision to place Larkin on the fourth line on a rotating basis has been questioned, with many believing his skills are being wasted. Canada’s optimistic supporters, on the other hand, are already declaring the tournament before a single game is played. Once the games begin, all eyes will be on Dylan Larkin. Will he stay in a diminished role, or will he force his way into the top six and quiet his critics? One thing is certain—fans are watching closely, and they’re not happy.
The post “Disrespect”: Team USA Bashed by Fans Over 4 Nations Mistake appeared first on EssentiallySports.
