Dylan Larkin wins NHL Fastest Skater, beats Gartner’s record (Video)

NASHVILLE – Dylan Larkin has wheels. The Detroit Red Wings rookie won the NHL Fastest Skater event to kick off the Skills Competition Saturday night at Bridgestone Arena.

Not only did Larkin post the fastest time among the six competitors, but he also was given the opportunity to beat Mike Gartner’s record time of 13.386 set in 1996. 

Larkin is now the fourth straight rookie to win the event, joining Jonathan Drouin (2015), Carl Hagelin (2012) and Michael Grabner (2011). 

FINAL RESULTS

East:

Dylan Larkin, Detroit Red Wings / 12.894

Brandon Saad, Columbus Blue Jackets / 13.634

Erik Karlsson, Ottawa Senators / 14.630

Kris Letang, Pittsburgh Penguins / 14.081 

West:

Roman Josi, Nashville Predators / 13.527

Matt Duchene, Colorado Avalanche / 14.026

Taylor Hall, Edmonton Oilers / 13.654

Dustin Byfuglien, Winnipeg Jets / 14.203

Score through first event: East 5, West 1 

Larkin vs. Gartner’s record: 13.172

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Sean Leahy is the associate editor for Puck Daddy on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Sean_Leahy

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