The Detroit Red Wings released an official statement saying that Anthony Mantha will be out “at least a couple of weeks…. Mantha Inury
Not a good sign for Mantha who is on track to have a career year in scoring. The club wouldn’t commit as to whether or not Zadina will be in Detroit for the duration of the injury. The article quotes Blashill saying “100% day to day…. The coach followed that by alluding to the fact that Zadina’s play will be, ultimately, the dictating factor. This is an important window for #11.
In a game that saw Detroit shut out by Carolina, Filip Zadina had some nice moments. It will be interesting what a few days of practice and the chance to build some chemistry will add to his performance. Blashill tends to under utilize talented prospects in lieu of responsible veterans (as per his predecessor). Luke Glendening had found a slot on the second line while Zadina was relegated to third line duties.
There is a hope, if only fleeting, that Zadina will see top 6 minutes at full strength as well as some power play time. It is up to the player to make the most of the opportunity, certainly. Nothing is given, everything has to be earned. One player’s success, inevitably, leads to another player’s demotion. Jiri Fischer tells prospects they need to “take someone’s job…. For Zadina to stay in the NHL, he needs to acquire top 6 minutes. Otherwise, his development is best served in Grand Rapids. This player understands that, and looks more poised than ever to seize the opportunity.
Of course, Mantha can’t be back soon enough. His on ice presence and production are unlike any other player the Wings currently have. The problem with this particular injury is that he can’t skate while it heals (as it is “lower body…). Last year he made the most of a wrist injury and became a much better skater. This time around, more conditioning will be needed as he is on the mend.
As for personal preference, it would be to my personal delight to see Zadina play with Larkin and Bertuzzi for a few shifts. Or perhaps Athanasiou and Fabbri. Athanasiou doesn’t play center as much, so it may be with Filppula and A.A. while Fabbri bumps up. All of those scenarios would seem, personally, to offer the best look at the 6th overal pick from 2018. Zadina has seemed to have found the strength and skill set to go along with the chip he developed being passed over by multiple clubs. It would be good for him personally to “fill up their nets… as soon as possible. Otherwise, the scoffers will continue in their scoffing. It makes for interesting hockey, for sure.
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