Episode 104: No Larkin Trade Talk & Tarasov Takes Over
SUMMARY: The Flying Octopus Podcast hosts Evan Sabourin, Devin Little, and Tony Wolak assess Detroit’s recent games, focusing on the team’s resilience and developing players rather than the ongoing Dylan Larkin trade conversation. They also debate the Red Wings’ new Hometown Remix jerseys and discuss Daniil Tarasov’s strong play, John Gibson’s trade value, and the challenge of managing Detroit and Grand Rapids’ goaltending depth. KEYWORDS: Detroit Red Wings, Flying Octopus Podcast, Daniil Tarasov, John Gibson, William Wallinder, Red Wings jerseys, NHL, Grand Rapids Griffins KEY TOPICS: The hosts pan the Hometown Remix jerseys, calling them underwhelming and comparing them unfavorably with past Red Wings alternate designs. Tony Wolak points to Detroit’s ability to learn from one game to the next: holding a lead against Florida, responding after a poor start in Tampa Bay, and starting stronger against Vegas. The panel praises the team’s effort and commitment to Todd Mclellan’s system, even when facing more talented opponents and playing without key contributors. Devin Little highlights William Wallinder’s growing role alongside Justin Faulk, noting that Wallinder had played nine straight games and was earning the coaching staff’s trust. The hosts single out rookie Michael Brandsegg-Nygård (referred to as MBN) for his physical play, including 75 hits, and discuss his growing confidence as a shooting option. Devin contrasts Daniil Tarasov’s impressive performances with John Gibson’s struggles; Tony argues Detroit should ride Tarasov while he is playing well. The hosts weigh a possible Gibson trade against his current form, the return Detroit might receive, and the effect a call-up could have on Grand Rapids’ goaltending depth. The panel says Detroit’s difficult division and upcoming road games against Colorado, St. Louis, Florida, and Tampa Bay will test whether the team can keep competing. TAKEAWAYS: “They are competing their asses off every may” “They are one hundred percent bought into Todd McClellan's system” “They show that they belong.” “they're playing winning hockey despite not having a winning roster” “Wallander has played now with the Vegas game behind us nine games in a row.” “He's a hockey player. he does all the things that people like like to watch” “you have to roll with him until he has a poor game.” “He explodes up into the shot as opposed to like just letting it hit him.” “you want to maximize John Gibson.” “I really love watching these kids play.” SOUND BITES: "They look kinda cheap." "They show that they belong." "He explodes up into the shot." Chapters 00:00 The Hometown Remix jerseys draw a rough review 05:03 Why the hosts set aside the Larkin trade saga 07:14 Detroit adjusts after setbacks against St. Louis and Tampa 10:25 Wallinder and the young players making their mark 14:52 Tarasov’s strong play and Gibson’s struggles 16:13 Why Detroit should keep riding Tarasov 19:42 What would make a John Gibson trade worthwhile? 22:41 Balancing Detroit’s needs with Grand Rapids’ goalie depth 27:11 A men’s-league comparison and rink-cam reality check 29:05 The next road test: Colorado, St. Louis, and Florida