Anthony Mantha lit up during the end of the Detroit Red Wings 2018-19 season. In the latter half of the year, Mantha achieved a level of consistency that had eluded him in years prior. In the last eight games of the season, Mantha recorded 8 goals and 15 points. He came alive on Detroit’s power play, looking like the true star of the team. Now, it looks like Mantha is ready to take another step for the Red Wings, setting up for what could be a long-awaited breakout season next year.
Anthony Mantha is Set for a Breakout Year
Through the first three seasons of his career, Mantha has been plagued by both injuries and inconsistency in his play. Often a target of Detroit Red Wings head coach Jeff Blashill. However, it’s not hard to see the positives in Mantha’s play. He is a strong, quick winger with a strong shooting ability. These are strengths that have shined through in his recent play, effectively silencing all doubters.
This past spring, Mantha played in the IIHF World Championship. After a strong end to the 2018-19 season, Mantha continued his hot streak into the IIHF tournament, tallying 14 points in nine games for Team Canada.
With so much dominant play recently, questions again surround Mantha. Fans are surely wondering if he can join teammates Dylan Larkin and Andreas Athanasiou as 30-goal scorers next season. If Mantha can stay healthy and consistent, the 30 goal plateau will be within reach. Playing on Detroit’s top line with Larkin and Tyler Bertuzzi gives Mantha the talent he needs to advance his game. Yet, when top Red Wings prospect forwards Filip Zadina and Joe Veleno are ready, Mantha could slide on a line with Athanasiou and one of the top young forwards.
Looking Forward
The Red Wings have significantly struggled in recent years. But they are now in a much better position to compete next season. If Mantha can continue his dominant play, Detroit’s top-six will suddenly become much more well-rounded. He already has 8 points in just 5 games this season and has been a big part of Detroit’s early-season success.
For Mantha to continue to stay consistent and grow as a player, he needs to move his feet on a consistent basis and play physical. When he has done that he has been a very effective player. His skill allows him to bring more than one aspect to the game and when he is on teams need to respect him. However, those two things have been an issue for the talented young forward. He made strides last season and gained steam in the final two weeks of the Red Wings schedule.
Anthony Mantha has always come across as a player who could give more. It looks like he is ready to do just that.
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