Ex GM Brian Burke Slams Dylan Larkin

There has been debate regarding whether or not players should have the right to decline their invitation to the NHL All-Star game. Detroit Red Wings' Dylan Larkin asked fans not to vote for him to participate in the fan oriented weekend and stated "I like the days off more". This disgruntled many individuals in the hockey community, particularly former GM Brian Burke. Here's what he said.

"I think it's stupid. This kid is a good kid and he is a good player, but it is an honor to be a part of the All-Star weekend. It is a very important weekend for the NHL and their sponsors and broadcast partners. You should get a speeding ticket on your way to the airport to fly to this game Dylan Larkin, and you shouldn't scoff at it like that."

Burke was also asked how he would have dealt with this situation if he were in GM Steve Yzerman's position. This is what he had to say.

"I would have ripped his face off if that were one of my players. I would have said 'how can you be that dumb in front of a camera, if you're gonna be that stupid do it off camera'."

Brian Burke's unrefined opinion is shared by many, but some have come to Larkin's defence. He has been expected to be the face of the franchise, but has only scored an underwhelming 10 goals and 16 assists this season. Perhaps it would be an embarrassment to be elected to the All-Star game with point production far lower than the average participant.