It certainly isn’t surprising but Dylan Larkin will indeed remain a Detroit Red Wing past the nine-game mark, Wings general manager Ken Holland confirmed via text message Tuesday.

Had Larkin been demoted before his 10th game to the AHL for the rest of the season, the first year of his entry-level NHL contract would have slid into next season.

But his play this month made it very clear there was no debate in the Wings front office. Yes, not many 19-year-olds get to stick with the big club in Detroit but this one is special and has proven he belongs. Besides, if his play slides later in the season it doesn’t mean they can’t send him to Grand Rapids. But I doubt that will happen.