A look at 4 former Red Wings that are struggling so far in 2023

Last but not least, former Red Wings forward Anthony Mantha

The former 20th overall pick of the Detroit Red Wings, like Vrana, has also found himself in the press box from time to time since joining the Washington Capitals. Anthony Mantha had once been considered a top-scoring prospect of the Red Wings and was expected to excel playing alongside Alex Ovechkin but has failed to put it all together.

Mantha, 29, had scored 24-plus goals in a season on two occasions before being dealt to the Capitals but has notched just 25 total over four years and 127 games since the trade. He’s recorded just one goal and one assist over nine games this season, averaging less than 13 minutes per night.

The Capitals are reportedly trying to find someone to take Mantha and his lucrative contract as they look for a replacement for Nicklas Backstrom. Backstrom’s career is in jeopardy as he’s stepped away from the game due to ongoing health issues.

Mantha’s current deal carries a $5.7 million cap hit, and the Caps will be required to sweeten the pot with draft capital to entice a team to absorb that money. Perhaps a bottom feeder like the Sharks would be willing to do business?

Another team that comes to mind is the Anaheim Ducks, and although he doesn’t have any money to work with, this type of deal has Ken Holland’s name written all over it.