Detroit Hockey Now’s Kevin Allen checks in with the Grand Rapids Griffins today, writing a subscriber-only article about the Griffins’ superb start. Allen offers 10 reasons why the Griffins’ performances should matter to Red Wings fans:
2. Quality Goaltending
Under the category of long-term potential, Sebastian Cossa (2.08 GAA, .931 save percentage) continues to play like one of the league’s top NHL prospects. He’s been much sharper in the early going than Minnesota’s Jesper Wallstedt who, like Cossa, was taken in the first round in 2021. For the short term, veteran Ville Husso is also playing at a high level. Husso is 4-0 with a 1.58 GAA and .944
More importantly, Husso is staying healthy. Many Detroit fans have written off Husso, but the Red Wings haven’t forgotten him. Should Cam Talbot or Alex Lyon become injured or go into an extended slump, Husso could get another chance.
3. Star on the Rise
The Red Wings’ appreciation for [Griffins coach Dan] Watson started when he was with the Toledo Walleye. And now the Red Wings really respect the job he’s doing in developing their prospects in Grand Rapids. Everyone seems to be improving. The danger here is that another NHL team might lure him away with a job in the show.
4. Danielson Sorting It Out
Much like Marco Kasper last season, Detroit 2023 first round pick Nate Danielson is playing better and better as they season progresses. He has two goals and nine points in 17 games. But he has five in his last five games. That includes a pair of multiple point games.
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