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Wings confirm prized rookie Larkin will stick with team

Well, it’s official -- Dylan Larkin is staying in Detroit.

GM Ken Holland confirmed as much to ESPN on Tuesday, news that doesn’t come as a huge surprise but is still of great significance. Larkin, 19, has been a major factor for the Red Wings this season -- seven points through his first eight games -- but this isn’t a team that traditionally keeps teenagers at the NHL level.

The last to spend the year in the bigs?

Jiri Fischer, who turned the trick nearly 15 years ago.

Detroit had the option to send Larkin to AHL Grand Rapids prior to the nine-games-played mark, and avoid “burning” the first of his three-year, entry-level deal. But that option never seemed likely, especially with the way Larkin’s producing offensively; it’s also worth noting the Wings can still send him to the American League this year, should he begin to struggle or appear overwhelmed.

For now, though, the University of Michigan product will focus on the task at hand -- game No. 9, which is tonight against Carolina. Larkin will center Detroit’s second line, between Tomas Tatar and Teemu Pulkkinen.