GRAND RAPIDS - The biggest battle that top Detroit Red Wings prospect Evgeny Svechnikov is facing in a prolonged slump may be against Evgeny Svechnikov.

The Grand Rapids Griffins second-year pro has not scored since Nov. 8, a span of 12 games, and his five points (2-3-5) in 20 games is lowest among forwards.

Not the way the team's top pick in 2015 was expected to start out.

And, most disappointed by the numbers may be Svechnikov.

"I never struggled like this and it's a challenge for me this year," he said after Tuesday's practice. "I think it's more tough mentally because I used to score goals and now I'm not.

"But, I'm still good. I come into the rink every day with the same positive attitude. Honestly, I'm going to tell you I never expected it. But, I don't give up. I keep pushing forward. That's all I can do and forget about the past."

It is a hardship Svechnikov has taken upon himself before. He is aware of his place as the Red Wings' top pick in 2015 (No. 19 overall), said coach Todd Nelson, who thinks Svechnikov places undue pressure on himself.

"His problem is he's his own worst critic," Nelson said. "Sometimes, he puts a lot of pressure on himself and when that happens, things go in a bad way.

"I just have to read off him to see how he's feeling and give him confidence because, right now, nobody likes what we're going through," the coach said. "In his case, he squeezes his stick tighter every game he plays.

"Bottom line is go out and have fun, play the system well and work hard."

By his own admission, Svechnikov said he "tries to do too much sometimes right now.

"I think it all comes down to confidence and, right now, I don't have it," he said. "You can say it, but you just have to find it. I just have to be more on the puck and take it to the net and get a few more shots."

The 21-year-old's struggles come after his preseason stock was high amid hopes he could land an early call-up to the Red Wings.

Last year, Svechnikov had 20 goals and 51 points - third on the team - and got his first dose of the NHL with two games with the Red Wings. He also played well in the AHL postseason with five goals and 12 points as the Griffins won the Calder Cup.

But he missed the final two preseason games with the Red Wings and the first five games of the Griffins season with a neck injury and hasn't gotten on track so far.

"Health is good, no problems," Svechnikov said. "There's so much stuff we can talk about, but the bottom line is I don't produce much right now. I'm still pushing myself and staying positive."

It doesn't help the Griffins (9-13-0-3) have lost eight of nine heading into Wednesday's home game against Iowa. But Nelson said he is not concerned.

"Sometimes it's the game within the game," he said. "It's not all roses. Sometimes, when you're down it can help you in the future and Geno certainly has a bright future."

Svechnikov can also draw confidence from the past. Last season, he also had a slow start. In fact, after 20 games Svecnhnikov had the same stats as this season - two goals and five assists. Over his next 20 games, he busted loose for 10 goals and six assists.