Red Wings Prospect Has Hat Trick and Breakout Game

For Anthony Mantha, the road to the NHL was not as easy as many had anticipated.

Early on, it was assumed that Mantha would see NHL action in his first pro season, but after breaking his leg during the Traverse City Prospect Tournament last year, things changed drastically. Once he returned to action with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Mantha struggled to produce offensively like he had in the QMJHL. He finished the season with 15 goals and 18 assists, good for 33 points in 62 games.

His stats certainly weren’t bad for a rookie, but the high expectations led many to believe his output would be higher.

This season, however, Mantha is regaining his scoring touch. He already has the same 15 goals and 18 assists as last year, but he’s played 18 fewer games. His 33 points currently leave him two shy of the team lead, and he also ranks third on the team in goals.

Last night was further proof that Mantha is progressing and headed in the right direction. His efforts against the Milwaukee Admirals included a four point night. He tallied three goals, one on a slick penalty shot, and added another assist on a Nathan Paetsch goal.

The Anthony Mantha that Red Wings fans had expected may finally be coming to fruition. While it remains doubtful that he gets an extended call up with the Red Wings this season, his output has him headed in the right direction.

Check out highlights below from Mantha’s breakout game. Drop us a note in the comments with your thoughts on this hot prospect. Would you like to see him with the Red Wings this season? Or do you think he needs more time in Grand Rapids to develop?

 

 

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