Detroit — Givani Smith is in one of those difficult situations young players sometimes find themselves in.
Smith isn't playing much. When he is on the ice, he might be overthinking things and making it worse for himself. He's desperately trying to make a positive impact and earn more playing time.
It's not easy, and there's a delicate balance. Somehow you need to wait for your chance and take advantage of it, after biding your time and learning when you're not playing.
"It's not easy and when you don't get played a lot, it affects you," coach Jeff Blashill said.