Red Wings star Dylan Larkin mocks Ohio Stadium ahead of NHL Stadium Series game: ‘Ugliest stadium’

A Unique Practice Setting for the Red Wings

This week, the Detroit Red Wings experienced a practice session unlike any other. Instead of their usual hockey rink, the team laced up their skates on a temporary rink set up in the middle of Ohio Stadium, the iconic home of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. The unusual setting added a layer of excitement and novelty to their preparation for their upcoming game. For players like Dylan Larkin, who rose to hockey fame during his time with the Michigan Wolverines, the environment was both familiar and strange. While the outdoor rink brought a sense of nostalgia and adventure, the aesthetic of the football stadium itself wasn’t exactly winning over fans. Larkin candidly shared his thoughts, calling Ohio Stadium "probably the ugliest stadium I’ve ever been in." Despite the unflattering remarks about the venue, the team remained focused on the task at hand—preparing for a high-stakes matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The practice session was part of the buildup to the highly anticipated Stadium Series game, scheduled for the following day. The event, which combines the thrill of outdoor hockey with the electric atmosphere of a football stadium, is a unique experience for both players and fans. Larkin, however, acknowledged the mixed emotions that come with playing in such an unconventional setting. "It’s cool to play hockey outside," he told reporters. "There’s a lot of excitement with the guys, and it’s pretty cool to just do something different." While the novelty of the outdoor game was undeniable, the team knew they had to stay sharp and focused as they competed for a crucial spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

The Stakes of the Stadium Series Game

The Red Wings and Blue Jackets entered the Stadium Series game tied in the race for one of the Eastern Conference’s wild-card spots. With both teams vying for a playoff berth, the game carried significant weight. The stakes were high, and the players were fully aware of what was on the line. For Detroit, the game also served as an opportunity to bounce back from a recent 5-2 loss to the Blue Jackets in a game played on home ice. The team was determined to use the outdoor game as a chance to even the score and gain ground in the competitive standings.

While the game promised to be an exhilarating spectacle, the weather conditions added an extra layer of complexity. Forecasts predicted temperatures in the 20s at puck drop, with wind gusts likely to play a role in the game. Patrick Kane, a veteran forward for the Red Wings with extensive experience in outdoor games, commented on the potential challenges posed by the weather. "I’m sure the ice will be a little bit better (tonight), being colder," he said. Kane also noted that the wind could create uneven playing conditions, with skaters facing headwinds in one direction and tailwinds in the other. He even suggested that the wind might prompt a strategic decision to switch sides during the third period to ensure fair play.

The combination of cold temperatures and wind gusts threatened to impact not just the players’ performance but also the quality of the ice. While the cooler air was expected to improve ice conditions compared to the warmer temperatures during practice, the wind posed a persistent challenge. Players would need to adapt quickly to the unpredictable conditions, making split-second decisions to compensate for the wind’s influence on passes, shots, and skating.

The Excitement of Outdoor Hockey

Despite the logistical challenges, the outdoor game represented a special moment for the players and fans alike. For many on the Red Wings roster, the Stadium Series game was a rare opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of outdoor hockey. The temporary rink in Ohio Stadium brought back memories of playing pond hockey as kids, a far cry from the climate-controlled arenas they usually call home. The camaraderie among the players was palpable, as they embraced the chance to do something different and create lasting memories.

For Dylan Larkin, who has deep roots in Michigan hockey, playing in the Stadium Series was a reminder of the sport’s ability to transcend traditional venues. While he may not have been impressed by the aesthetics of Ohio Stadium, he acknowledged the excitement that came with playing in such a unique setting. The energy of the crowd, the crisp outdoor air, and the historic backdrop of the football stadium all combined to make the experience unforgettable. As the Red Wings prepared to face off against the Blue Jackets, the players were determined to make the most of the opportunity, both on and off the ice.

A Chance for Redemption

The Stadium Series game also offered the Red Wings a chance to redeem themselves after a disappointing 5-2 loss to the Blue Jackets earlier in the week. The defeat had left Detroit eager to prove they could bounce back and compete at the highest level. With the two teams tied in the standings, the game took on added significance, as the winner would gain a crucial edge in the race for the wild-card spot. The Red Wings were determined to put on a show for their fans and prove their resilience in the face of adversity.

Patrick Kane, a key player for Detroit, brought a wealth of experience and insight into the game. Having played in multiple outdoor games throughout his career, he understood the unique challenges and opportunities that came with this type of event. Kane’s comments about the wind and ice conditions highlighted his focus on the details that could make the difference between victory and defeat. His ability to adapt to the ever-changing environmental factors would be crucial as the game unfolded.

As the puck dropped, the Red Wings were ready to give it their all, determined to secure a much-needed win and take a step closer to the playoffs. The Stadium Series game was more than just a spectacle—it was a chance for the team to rise to the occasion and show the resilience that defines Detroit hockey.

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The Stadium Series game was just one of many exciting events in the NHL’s 2025 season, and