In Red Wings Land

How Anthony Mantha, All-Star balloting can help spark Detroit Red Wings | Freep

The Wings are 1-7-3 their last 11 games, echoing their 1-7-2 start to the season. There was a nice turn of events this week, though, with Howard being named to the 2019 All-Star Game on Wednesday. He played in 2012, had to miss the 2015 edition because of injury, and relishes this year’s go in San Jose, Calif., because of how much it will mean to sons James, 7, and Henry, 4.

“Henry actually woke up this morning and asked, how many more sleeps until we go to California,” Howard said, smiling. “It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Initially I thought it was kind of lame that Jimmy Howard was going to the NHL All-Star Game over Dylan Larkin, but now, not so much. It seems like Howard’s return to all-star status is going to result in a really great trip and experience for him and his family. That’s awesome to learn.

Also, Anthony Mantha is returning to the Red Wings lineup tonight. Giddy up.

Around the League

KAAPO KAKKO IS PROVING HE’S THE REAL DEAL FOR THE 2019 DRAFT | The Hockey News

Maybe missing out on Jack Hughes might not be so terrible?