from Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News,

Larkin's 15 goals also tie him for 10th in the NHL, along with Sebastian Aho (Carolina) and Jake Guentzel (Pittsburgh).

Coming off what was a disappointing and frustrating season that ended with a frightful injury, this rebound season, of sorts, is bringing satisfaction for Larkin, who has found terrific chemistry on a line with Tyler Bertuzzi and Raymond.

"Having Tyler and Lucas there helps a lot," Larkin said. "I know I'm going to get chances. We create a lot, we play the right way. It gives me confidence to get into a rhythm."

Last season's shortened schedule was a struggle for Larkin.

Seeing Bertuzzi go down after the first month with an injury that resulted in back surgery, and then linemate Anthony Mantha go into an immediate slump and ultimately getting traded away, and a revolving door of linemates, then a season-ending injury when Dallas forward Jamie Benn crosschecked Larkin in the neck area off a faceoff all took a toll on Larkin.

Larkin wound up with nine goals and 14 assists (23 points) and wasn't the usual offensive threat he's been since entering the NHL.

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