Athanasiou has been out since November 10th, but will be back in vs. Columbus on Friday. Athanasiou has blazing speed and good hands, but has been limited to just 12:06 TOI/GM in 13 games this season. In limited playing time, Athanasiou has collected four goals and one assist.
Athanasiou is expected to miss 1-2 weeks with a sprained knee, so his move to IR is just a formality to create room for Anthony Mantha to be recalled from Grand Rapids.
Athanasiou was hurt in the Red Wings’ win vs. the Canucks on Thursday. Athanasiou, who had arguable his best game as a Red Wing on Tuesday, will miss the next 1-2 weeks, which means he will likely land on IR and another prospect will be recalled from Grand Rapids (AHL).
Athanasiou had no points, three shots and a plus-1 rating in three games while averaging 11:25 TOI in his three games in the lineup. Tonight he will be scratched for the second time in five games as he gets replaced by Steve Ott on the fourth line.
