Mantha's Prove-It Year with Penguins

0:00Welcome to NHL News Today, two minutes of updates that matter to NHL fans. Hit subscribe and stay connected. Anthony Manta signed a 1-year 2.5 million dollar deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins last July 2nd after a tough torn right ACL injury. From November 5th, 2024, sideline him for most of last season. The 30-year-old 6-foot 5-240-pound forward wondered if his NHL days were numbered, but Pittsburgh took a chance on his scoring, potential. Now 60 games into the season, he's chasing career highs with 21 goals and 45 points putting him close to his previous bests of, 25 goals and 48 points from his Detroit days. Earlier this week, Manta grinded through 11 months of rehab that he called Zero Fun separating him from the team and sparking doubts about his future. He rehabbed alongside teammate Justin Kirkland who had a similar injury and focused on returning as an impact player. Playing early with Evgeny Malkin helped him shake off pre-season rust, leading to 6 goals

1:04and 5 assists in his first 12 games as his legs and instincts sharpened weak by weak. Penguins coach Dan Mewes praises Manta for attacking the net with good hands and instincts driving play on 5 on 5 and the power play. He may bend Kendo, calls him smart-skilled and hungry, matching the team's push. That chemistry layly with Kendo and Justin Brzo has fueled his hot streak. Meanwhile, the penguin sits second in the Metropolitan Division, tied with the New York Islanders and chasing Carolina, heading into the playoffs with A.A. 31 win 16 loss, 13 overtime record. Manta keeps building momentum ahead of Thursday's home game against the Buffalo Sabers at 7 p.m. Eastern time. He admits the knee isn't fully 100% and could flare up so he stays on top of treatments aiming for 95%. Still thriving Manta eyes, a multi-year contract for stability into his mid-30s, proving this prove a year, a success.

2:05A quick thank you to our sponsor of today's episode, Comfort You Can Hear, Sound You Can Relax Into S-O-L-I-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com