The Grand Rapids Griffins played three games and for the second week in a row came out with only one victory – although Jared McIsaac was quite good in that stretch. They opened the week with a 6-3 win at Milwaukee before losing a pair of weekend games, 5-3 and 3-1 against the Chicago Wolves.
Player to Watch
Jared McIsaac
After what looked like a pause in Jared McIsaac’s development, McIsaac had a much better week, including a two goal outburst on Friday night during a 5-3 loss to Chicago. These were McIsaac’s first goals as a professional. On Sunday, McIsaac was held without a point but, he did have four shots on goal.
In 17 games this season, McIsaac has two goals and five points with a -7 rating. He is paired with Ryan Murphy who is a terrific veteran mentor for the young blueliner.
McIsaac needs to continue to show improvement if he wants to take one of the open defense openings in the Red Wings lineup next season.
Detroit Prospect Update
Taro Hirose continues to lead the Griffins in scoring with 13 assists and 17 points in 17 games. If Hirose continues his strong play, he should be recalled after the trade deadline. It is important for the Red Wings to get a look at a prospect like Hirose, who has one year remaining before he becomes an UFA.
Jonatan Berggren had a quiet week scoring one goal and two points against Milwaukee on Wednesday and was pointless during both games on the weekend. Berggren looks like he will be the next forward recalled when Detroit requires a winger to round out their lineup.
Chase Pearson had a slow week as he was help without a point in all three games. The one thing holding Pearson back is his -7 rating while at even strength. If Pearson is not chipping in offensively, he must be able to keep the oppositions top players off the scoreboard.
Donovan Sebrango had a steady week in Grand Rapids. Even though Sebrango was held without a points in the three games, he did show his physicality when he got into his first fight on Friday night. Sebrango continues to lead the Griffins with a +7 rating.
Calvin Pickard continues to be the #1 goaltender for the Griffins. Pickard played all three games last week and in 14 games played this year, Pickard has a 7-4-2 record, 2.48 GAA, and .926 SV%.
Next Week
The Griffins play two home games against Rockford next weekend against the Ice Hogs. They begin the weekend on Friday and conclude with another game on Saturday. Both games begin at 7:00 PM ET at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, MI.