Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has emerged as a pivotal figure for Team USA in the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, described by teammates and media as the team's "heartbeat" and "Mr. Popularity." As Team USA prepares for the gold medal game against Canada, Larkin, 29, embodies the team's values of loyalty, commitment, sacrifice, and performance. Despite being the No. 1 center and power-play specialist for the Red Wings, Larkin has embraced a No. 3 center role and plays on the penalty kill for Team USA. He wears no letter on his jersey but leads warmups and generates significant energy within the team. Teammate Zach Werenski, a close friend, stated, "He’s the heartbeat." Larkin has delivered in critical moments, scoring the first goal in both the 2-1 overtime quarterfinal win against Sweden and the 6-2 semifinal victory over Slovakia. His blue-collar work ethic is evident in his 25-5 faceoff record and the team's perfect 10-for-10 penalty-killing efficiency. Coach Mike Sullivan praised Larkin, saying, "Larks has done a great job of what we’ve asked of him... whatever we ask him he embraces." Reporter Emily Kaplan highlighted his "heart-and-soul" nature and status as a "big game player." Larkin himself expressed deep pride in USA Hockey, stating, "USA Hockey means the world to me... we’d like to be a part of that and inspire kids for generations to come." Larkin's connection to USA Hockey runs deep, having played for the National Team Development Program in Ann Arbor and representing the country multiple times since his teenage years. He was drafted by Detroit in 2014, played one season at the University of Michigan, and has been with the Red Wings since, becoming captain in 2021. He shares a lasting bond with many teammates, including Werenski, the Tkachuk and Hughes brothers, and Jack Eichel, many of whom also came through the U.S. development program. Quinn Hughes referred to Larkin as an "older brother mentor." Larkin also recalled the 4 Nations Face-Off where he scored a winner against Canada but ultimately lost the championship game in overtime. Team USA is vying for its third Olympic gold medal in men's hockey, with previous wins in 1960 and 1980.