Mantha to make NHL debut, will be paired with top forwards.

The Red Wings started off the regular season by delivering the disappointing news that forward Anthony Mantha was unlikely to make the organization's National Hockey League roster this season. It was a disappointment to fans, to Mantha, and even to general manager Ken Holland who clearly had high expectations of Mantha.

As a result Mantha has spent his entire season in the American Hockey League with the Grand Rapids Griffins, and even after a recent hat trick had many fans wondering if Mantha deserved a call up, the Red Wings reiterated that they did not intend to call up Mantha.

Perhaps as a result of his stellar play as of late, or perhaps because the Red Wings are desperate heading in to what has to be viewed as a must win match up against the Flyers tonight, the organization has had a change of heart and Mantha will play this evening. Not only will he play but according to Helen St. James of the Detroit Free Press he's expected to play a big role this evening, and will be playing alongside two of Detroit's top talents.

"Morning skate lines today showed Detroit Red Wings prospect Anthony Mantha skating with Pavel Datsyuk and Tomas Tatar, indicating that Mantha should get solid ice time in his first NHL game."

In a must win game with major playoff implications, the spotlight will be on the youngster this evening.

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