Thomas Vanek is putting up points, but his value carries into the Red Wings' locker room. Filmed Jan. 21, 2019 in Vancouver, British Columbia Helene St. James, Detroit Free Press
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — As the Detroit Red Wings try to be competitive, one veteran is helping spark the offense.
Thomas Vanek has spun a four-game point streak with three goals and three assists. His presence on the team matters in other ways, too, but on the ice his line with Anthony Mantha and Frans Nielsen is heating up.
“This game is all about confidence and once you play better as a line — I think with Fransie and Mo, we’re really starting to develop something, holding on to pucks, getting chances and the puck is starting to go in, so that’s nice,” Vanek said after Monday’s practice at Rogers Arena.