Detroit Red Wings key statistics

NHL.com is providing in-depth analysis for each of its 31 teams throughout August. Today, three key statistics for the Detroit Red Wings.

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1. Mantha points

Despite missing 15 games last season, Red Wings forward Anthony Mantha tied an NHL career-high with 48 points (25 goals, 23 assists) in 67 games, and led the NHL with 15 points (eight goals, seven assists) from March 23 to the end of the season. During this productive period, Mantha skated mostly on the top line with center Dylan Larkin and forward Tyler Bertuzzi, who was tied for second in the same span with 13 points (five goals, eight assists). Detroit quietly found its best top line combination, and that success could be sustainable; Mantha's plus-157 SAT last season was second among Red Wings skaters behind Larkin (plus-192).

2. Hronek points per 60

Defenseman Filip Hronek had a productive rookie season with 23 points (five goals, 18 assists) in 46 games. When No. 1 defenseman Mike Green was injured, Hronek was used on the first power-play unit and had five power-play points, indicating he could see a more prominent role on special teams this season. Hronek played 1:10 per game on the penalty kill, signifying coach Jeff Blashill trusted the 21-year-old in all situations. Hronek was second among Detroit defensemen in SAT (minus-4) behind Nick Jensen (plus-16), who was traded to the Washington Capitals on Feb. 22. Hronek's 1.50 points per 60 minutes was 21st at the position among defensemen to play at least 43 games, signifying he's ready to contribute more offense this season.

3. Howard save percentage

Goalie Jimmy Howard had his most wins (23) since 2014-15. His .923 even-strength save percentage was fifth among goalies to play at least 55 games last season. His .827 save percentage against the power play was tied for 13th using the same parameters. It's worth noting the Red Wings had the fourth-worst penalty kill in the NHL last season (77.1 percent), and if they improve upon that, Howard's save percentage could rise to his NHL career-best .927, set in 2016-17.
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