Thomas Vanek went to the locker room after getting the worst of a knee-on-knee collision in the first period and would not return. During his post game press conference, Jeff Blashill announced that Thomas Vanek could miss 2-3 weeks.

The Red Wings Twitter account also sent out a tweet stating that Vanek would be evaluated tomorrow.

Thomas Vanek has two goals and five points through 12 games this season. He was signed as an unrestricted free agent in the offseason to bring a veteran presence to the locker room. He got off to a slow start, but has since picked up his production. It’s important that he’s producing because his playmaking is supposed to be aiding in the development of the Red Wings young stars. That was on full display tonight as he assisted on Michael Rasmussen‘s first NHL goal.

Vanek is one of three Red Wings veterans who is currently out injured, along with Frans Nielsen and Danny DeKeyser. They are only a few of the slew of injuries that the team suffered to start the season.

It’s added to the challenges the Wings have faced through their first 12 games.

More info is still to come on the nature of Vanek’s injury, but it’s possible the Wings call up a forward to backfill if Andreas Athanasiou is not ready to play on Thursday.