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Grand Rapids Griffins 2025-26 2nd half report cards
Early Excellence, Late Adversity: Evaluating the Griffins' 2025-26 Season...
By Jason Kasiorek
www.griffinscentral.com
June 17, 2026
First Half Dominance The Griffins were the hottest team in hockey during the first half, exploding out of the gate with a remarkable 30-3-2-1 record. They dominated in virtually every facet of the game:
- League best defense, allowing just 66 goals (1.83 GA/G),
- Explosive offense, scoring 131 goals (3.64 GF/G) - nearly double what they allowed
- League leaders in multiple categories, including goaltending, plus/minus, and goal scoring
During this stretch, the team played with swagger, structure, and overwhelming depth. Their defensive separation and transition game were elite, and their confidence was palpable.
Mid Season Surge & Turning Point The second half began just as strong, pushing the record to 40-7-2-1. But as injuries, NHL recalls, and roster shifting trades piled up, the stability that fueled their dominance began to erode. The lineup became a revolving door, and chemistry suffered.
This led to a 4-6-2 slump, the first real adversity the team had faced all season.
Late Season Recovery To their credit, the Griffins stabilized, winning 7 of their final 10 games. However, the spark that defined their early season identity never fully returned. The offense lost its punch, the defense lost its gap control and separation, and the team struggled to recapture the rhythm that once made them unstoppable.
Postseason Outcome Ultimately, the mid season turbulence proved costly. The Griffins entered the playoffs without the same confidence or cohesion that powered their historic first half, leading to another early postseason exit. The talent was there - but the timing, health, and momentum were not.
These are the Griffins' second half grades:
The Rating Scale:
A - Excellence
B - Above Average play - Exceeds Expectations
C - Baseline - Meets Expectations
D - Below Average play - Does not meet expectations
F - Fail
Grade Format: First Half / Second Half = Final Grade
Michael Brandsegg-Nygard A / A = A
Brandsegg Nygard arrived from Detroit and immediately became one of the most impactful players on the roster. His combination of size, physicality, and scoring touch made him a rare presence at the AHL level. After a steady first half, he elevated his offensive game down the stretch, finishing with 20 goals, including 12 in his final 29 games. He was one of the few players who raised his level in the postseason, leading the team with 4 goals and 8 points. His physical edge sharpened even further-he agitated opponents, initiated contact, and refused to back down from anyone. Given his production, tools, and playoff impact, he's very close to an NHL roster spot. It's likely that his time in the AHL is over.
Michal Postava A / A = A
Postava's rookie year was interrupted early by a knee injury, but once he returned, he quickly established himself as a legitimate NHL caliber goaltending prospect. While Cossa dominated the first half, Postava matched that level in the second, seizing momentum and refusing to give it back. In the back half of the season, he posted a 12-6 record, a 1.39 GAA, and a .935 save percentage, numbers that would stand out in any league. His consistency and poise earned him the starting job heading into the playoffs. In the postseason, he was steady, composed, and often spectacular, keeping his team competitive in every game. His ability to elevate under pressure was one of the defining stories of the run. Where he starts next season will depend heavily on training camp-and on whether Cossa remains in the organization-but Postava is knocking loudly on the NHL door.
Erik Gustafsson A / A = A
Gustafsson delivered exactly what you'd expect from a longtime NHL veteran playing in the AHL: complete offensive control. He produced at a point per game pace, consistently driving play with elite vision and poise. Whether threading precision passes through traffic or carrying the puck into scoring areas himself, he dictated the tempo every night. He was one of the league's most dangerous power play quarterbacks. Gustafsson could walk the blue line to open shooting lanes, set up point blasts, or slip down low for a quick wrister-making him unpredictable and extremely difficult to defend. Beyond the scoring, his greatest value may have been his influence on Detroit's young defense prospects. He served as a stabilizing partner and mentor for Tuomisto, Sandin Pelikka, and Johansson, accelerating their development with his experience and professionalism. Gustafsson enters the offseason as an unrestricted free agent and is not expected to return to the organization. His impact-both on the scoresheet and in the development of the next wave-will be difficult to replace.
Carter Mazur Inc. / A = A
Mazur's season was repeatedly disrupted by injuries, but whenever he was in the lineup, he made an immediate impact. He opened the year on a tear with six points in his first five games before landing on IR. When he finally returned in the second half, he picked up right where he left off, producing 7 goals and 3 assists in 11 games, even with a Detroit recall breaking up the rhythm. Mazur elevated his game further in the postseason, leading the team with five goals and consistently driving play with his intensity and edge. He remains one of the organization's most intriguing young forwards. Mazur combines a high compete level, strong offensive instincts, and a nasty, gritty style that makes him a constant problem for opponents. His forechecking is a defining trait-he pressures defenders relentlessly, forces turnovers, and has the finishing ability to capitalize on the chaos he creates. With his waiver exemption now expired, Mazur is effectively NHL bound. Attempting to send him back to Grand Rapids would almost certainly result in another team claiming him.
Eduards Tralmaks A / A = A
Tralmaks emerged as one of the season's biggest revelations, quickly becoming a fan favorite thanks to his upbeat personality and timely scoring. He delivered an excellent first half before departing for the Olympics, then returned even stronger, producing 22 points in his final 28 games and adding four goals in the playoffs. Down the stretch, he formed a highly effective third line trio with Stachowiak and Rychlovsky, often carrying the team during stretches plagued by injuries and recalls. His ability to elevate his linemates was a defining part of his breakout year. At 6'4", Tralmaks used his size to win battles, establish net front presence, and create chaos in the offensive zone. His release is deceptively quick-he needs almost no time or space to get his wicked wrist shot off, making him a constant scoring threat. His personal goal was to earn a single NHL game this season, and despite Detroit's roster challenges and his inspired play, he never received that opportunity. Tralmaks has signed a long term deal in Czechia for next season, though the contract reportedly includes an NHL out clause, leaving the door open for a potential return.
Sheldon Dries A / A = A
Dries remained one of the most reliable pillars of the Griffins' offense, embodying exactly what a veteran first line center should provide. His consistency was a stabilizing force throughout the year, and he continued to produce at a point per game pace in the second half, even as the quality of his linemates dipped due to injuries and recalls. A versatile forward who contributes in every situation, Dries is at his most dangerous on the power play, where his quick release and exceptional hand eye coordination make him a lethal finisher around the net. His ability to read plays, find soft ice, and convert chances gives him value beyond his raw point totals. Despite a drop in assists late in the season-largely a reflection of the revolving cast around him-his overall performance never wavered. His strong, steady play earned him both a recall to Detroit and a two year contract extension, underscoring his importance to the organization.
Amadeus Lombardi A / A = A
Lombardi's year mirrored that of his linemate Mazur: stretches of high end production interrupted by long injury absences. When healthy, he was a major offensive driver. In the first half, he leaned into his playmaking game with 16 points in 16 games, while the second half showcased his scoring touch, posting 13 goals and 13 assists in 31 games, including a run of consecutive game winners. Lombardi's defining trait is his elite speed. He can carry the puck at full pace, make plays without slowing down, and use his agility to slip through tight coverage. His ability to create space where none exists-shaking off checks and attacking seams-makes him a constant threat in transition. Off the puck, he's a relentless forechecker with a strong stick, frequently generating turnovers and turning them into scoring chances. As a restricted free agent, Lombardi is expected to be qualified. With another year of waiver exemption remaining, he is likely to begin next season in Grand Rapids, where he should continue to play a major role.
Wojciech Stachowiak - / A = A
Acquired in March to address a shortage of centers, Stachowiak made an immediate impact. He quickly developed strong chemistry with Eduards Tralmaks and helped ignite the third line at a crucial point in the season. Powered by several multi point performances, the German Olympian delivered an outstanding 15 points in 10 games, paired with a +15 rating over that stretch. His offense was a direct extension of his defensive reliability-he consistently positioned himself to intercept passes, disrupt plays, and transition the puck up ice with control. Stachowiak blends size, intelligence, and competitiveness. He battles effectively along the boards and at the net front, creating space for linemates and enabling Tralmaks to finish plays in high danger areas. His ability to win pucks and immediately turn defense into offense made him one of the most impactful late season additions. A restricted free agent expected to be qualified by Detroit, Stachowiak is a legitimate dark horse candidate for NHL time next season. His two way reliability and pro ready game give him a real chance to climb the organizational depth chart.
Antti Tuomisto A / A = A
In his third year with the Griffins, Tuomisto elevated his game to a new tier, showing major growth in his two way play, urgency, and overall impact. His second half mirrored his strong start, culminating in a career best 8 goals and 29 points, along with a +30 rating that tied him for sixth in the entire AHL. Tuomisto logged heavy minutes throughout the season, anchoring the top defensive pairing and earning the trust of the coaching staff in all situations. His blend of size, mobility, and improved decision making allowed him to legitimately establish himself as one of the best all around defenders in the AHL this year. His game took a noticeable step forward in pace and assertiveness. Tuomisto defended with more urgency, moved pucks efficiently, and showed increased confidence jumping into the play. His defensive reliability, combined with his ability to transition the puck cleanly, made him a stabilizing force on the blue line. Tuomisto is a Group VI UFA, and if he does not return, it would represent a significant loss for the Griffins' defensive core. His performance this season has raised his profile across the league, making his future an important storyline to watch.
Anton Johansson - / A = A
For the second straight year, Johansson joined the Griffins for the stretch run and immediately made his presence felt. The gritty Swedish defender earned a regular spot in the lineup, showcasing his elevated compete level, sharp puck movement, and reliable physical play. Johansson took another step forward in the postseason. He became a lightning rod in nearly every scrum, played with edge and purpose, and tied for the team lead in shots on goal, reflecting his assertiveness and confidence with the puck. game blends intensity, intelligence, and physicality. Johansson defends with bite, moves the puck efficiently, and brings a disruptive presence that opponents can't ignore. His ability to raise his level in high pressure situations continues to be one of his defining traits. Johansson is expected to take on a major role on the Griffins' blue line next season. With his upward trajectory and pro ready competitiveness, he remains a dark horse candidate for NHL time, especially if injuries or roster movement create opportunities.
Carter Gylander A / Inc. = A
Thrown into action as an injury replacement for Postava, Gylander made the most of his opportunity and quickly turned heads. His calm presence and technical consistency stood out immediately, giving the Griffins stability during a turbulent stretch in the first half. Although his second half usage was limited to a single start, he made it count-earning another win and finishing the season with a remarkable 7 0 1 record, a 1.62 GAA, and a .942 save percentage. Among AHL goaltenders with more than three appearances, his numbers were the best in the league, underscoring just how sharp he was in limited action. Gylander's game is built on efficiency and composure. He tracks pucks cleanly, controls rebounds well and rarely overplays situations. His size and positioning allow him to stay square and make difficult saves look routine, traits that translate well to higher levels. A restricted free agent, Gylander has firmly established himself as a legitimate organizational prospect. With his strong showing this season, he is a realistic candidate to back up Postava in Grand Rapids next year, depending on how Detroit structures its goaltending depth chart.
William Lagesson A / B+ = A-
Lagesson remains one of the Griffins' most intriguing blends of physicality and poise. He delivered a standout first half, posting 11 points and a league leading +23 in just 26 games. Even as the team struggled late in the season, he was one of their steadier, more reliable performers. Lagesson excelled as a shutdown defender, using his strength, edge, and competitiveness to win battles, block shots, and suffocate opposing forwards. His ability to take away time and space made him a dependable presence in high leverage situations. He consistently played with the kind of sandpaper and structure that anchors a defensive unit. He was also highly effective as the defensive conscience for Axel Sandin Pelikka, giving the young defender the freedom to activate offensively. Lagesson's stability and awareness were key in allowing that pairing to thrive. Returning for another season, Lagesson will continue to be a rock on the blue line-a dependable, physical, and intelligent defender who brings balance to any pairing.
Dominik Shine A / B = B+
For much of the year, Shine looked like he was living a dream season. He set new career highs offensively and earned an extended stay in the NHL, validating years of hard work and steady improvement. In the first half, he nearly matched his career best goal total and was one of the Griffins' most impactful forwards. He opened the second half strong and earned another recall to Detroit, but upon returning to Grand Rapids, he wasn't the same player. Shine looked exhausted, lacking the jump and intensity that define his game. That fatigue carried into the postseason, where he managed just one assist in eight games, far below his usual standard. Shine will return next season after signing a two year extension, giving the Griffins a trusted veteran presence who can still contribute in multiple roles when fresh.
Jakub Rychlovsky B / B+ = B+
The speedy winger built on a strong first half and found yet another gear offensively, producing one of his most effective stretches in the AHL. Rychlovsky became a key driver of play during a period when the Griffins were hit hard by injuries, recalls, and slumps. He formed instant chemistry on an explosive third line with Eduards Tralmaks and Wojciech Stachowiak. That trio provided much needed stability and scoring punch, often carrying the team through its most chaotic stretches of the season. Rychlovsky's game is built on impressive speed, relentless pressure, and disruptive forechecking. He creates havoc on the forecheck, forces turnovers, and has the skill to turn those broken plays into scoring chances. His motor and pace make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenders. A restricted free agent, Rychlovsky has signed to play in Czechia next season. While his rights remain with Detroit, his immediate future lies overseas.
Sebastian Cossa A / C+ = B+
For the first half of the season, Cossa was nothing short of dominant. He posted a 1.68 GAA, .937 save percentage, and a 17 1 1 record, including a 10 game win streak. His performance earned him back to back AHL Goaltender of the Month honors and a spot in the AHL All Star Game. At that stage, he looked like one of the best young goaltenders in the league. Around the three quarter mark of the season, his play dipped sharply - mirroring the team's overall struggles. He finished the second half 9 7 3 with a 2.98 GAA, was pulled from multiple starts, and ultimately lost the starting job for the postseason. While the body of work still earned him accolades, the late season regression raised legitimate questions about his readiness for NHL duty next year. At his best, Cossa is a towering, technically sound goaltender who swallows up space and controls rebounds well. When his confidence is high, he looks unshakeable. When it dips, his game can unravel quickly, particularly in terms of tracking and post integration. Despite the uneven finish-and the broader organizational development issues surrounding him-Cossa remains a valuable asset. His name has surfaced in trade rumors, but Detroit would only consider moving him for a significant return. He is out of waiver eligibility, so would have to remain in the NHL next season or risk being lost.
John Leonard A / C = B
For the first half of the season, Leonard was one of the AHL's most dangerous scorers. He led the league with 22 goals in 27 games, showcasing his finishing ability, pace, and confidence. At that point, he looked poised for a career year. After returning from an NHL recall late in the season, Leonard wasn't the same player. He lacked the same jump and scoring intensity, managing 11 goals in 20 games down the stretch. His diminished impact was emblematic of what the Griffins lacked in their short playoff run, where he contributed just one goal. When Leonard is healthy and in rhythm, he is a major asset on special teams. He played a key role on the league's top ranked penalty kill, where he was the AHL leader in shorthanded goals. His ability to pressure puck carriers and turn mistakes into offense is a defining part of his game. Signed for another season, Leonard will look to rebound as an elite scoring threat while continuing to push for a more permanent opportunity at the NHL level.
Alex Kannok Leipert B / B = B
Kannok Leipert delivered an impressive and quietly valuable season on the Griffins' blue line. He followed up a strong first half with a steady, reliable second half, though his role diminished late when Anton Johansson arrived and claimed a lineup spot. Even so, Kannok Leipert remained one of the team's most consistent depth defenders. He does a lot of things well, even if none of them rise to a standout, signature skill. Billed as a physical, stay at home defender, he showed he can move the puck effectively and skate with more mobility than expected. His competitiveness, edge, and willingness to engage physically made him a dependable option whenever called upon. Kannok Leipert proved to be a versatile piece, capable of sliding into different pairings and roles without disrupting structure. His ability to provide steady minutes, kill plays early, and keep things simple made him a valuable part of the defensive rotation. Returning for another season, he projects to anchor the bottom pairing, offering stability, physicality, and trustworthy depth as the Griffins integrate younger defenders.
Axel Sandin Pelikka - / B = B
Assigned to Grand Rapids late in the year after spending most of the season in Detroit, Sandin Pelikka made an immediate impression during the stretch run and playoffs. His talent was obvious, but so was the inconsistency that often comes with young, high skill defensemen transitioning to the pro game. The biggest challenge in his game remains consistency. There were nights where he looked like an NHLer playing down a level-calm, dynamic, and in total control. And there were others where he forced plays, struggled with reads, or made glaring defensive mistakes. His highs are extremely high, but the lows still show the need for refinement and experience. When he's on, Sandin Pelikka flashes elite vision, crisp puck movement, and the ability to break pressure with ease. His offensive instincts are special, and his ability to quarterback play from the back end is already NHL caliber. If he returns to the AHL next season, he should log heavy minutes and could put up huge numbers, showcasing the full range of his puck skills. Where he plays next season remains uncertain. Detroit may keep him in the NHL if they believe he's ready, but if he returns to Grand Rapids, he'll be a focal point of the blue line and one of the most impactful young defensemen in the league.
Eddie Genborg - / B = B
Joining the Griffins as part of the late season youth wave, Genborg looked immediately comfortable at the AHL level. He began on the fourth line but quickly earned promotions, spending time on scoring lines and never looking out of place. His overall impact was stronger than his raw point totals suggested - he looked poised to break out nearly every night. Genborg's game is defined by his physical, aggressive nature. He willingly battles in the hard areas, takes punishment to establish net front position, and consistently arrives in scoring spots at the right time. Off the puck, he was a wrecking ball, throwing heavy hits and forcing opponents to keep their heads up. His competitiveness and willingness to engage physically made him a noticeable presence every shift. His strong play earned the coaching staff's trust quickly. Genborg started the playoffs in the lineup and looked like he belonged before an injury cut his postseason short. His ability to adapt to different roles and elevate his game in meaningful moments was one of the more encouraging signs from the late season call ups. Genborg is expected to return to Sweden next season, but the door remains open for him to come back for the following year's playoff push. His combination of size, physicality, and emerging offensive instincts makes him a player worth tracking closely.
Gabriel Seger C / B = B-
A highly skilled defensive center, Seger played a significant role as the shutdown pivot on the fourth line. His first half highlighted his ability to use his size effectively - winning battles, protecting pucks, and driving play on a heavy, forechecking line with Doucet and Bantle. In the second half, Seger took a noticeable step forward offensively while maintaining his identity as a difficult matchup. He was trusted in key defensive situations, especially on faceoffs, and his +13-rating reflected how consistently he won his matchups. Seger's game is built on intelligence, positioning, and physical presence. He excels at shutting down opposing lines, using his frame to seal off lanes and his awareness to disrupt plays. His ability to shield the puck and extend possessions made him a stabilizing force in the bottom six. An unrestricted free agent for Grand Rapids, Seger could still return next season, and his dependable two way play would make him a valuable piece if he does.
William Wallinder C / B= B-
The smooth skating Swedish defender had a respectable first half, but his game truly began to shine in the second half - especially once paired with Anton Johansson. That pairing became a formidable shutdown duo, and Wallinder showed noticeable improvement in his reads, gap control, and overall defensive reliability. Wallinder's skating remains his defining trait - long, effortless strides that allow him to close quickly, retrieve pucks efficiently, and transition play with poise. His passing is crisp and clean, often leaving you wanting more offensively, but that's not the core of his game. Instead, he leaned into using his size, reach, and mobility to smother opposing forwards and control the defensive zone. Down the stretch, Wallinder played some of his best hockey of the season. His improved defensive detail, combined with his natural tools, made him a difficult matchup. If he continues to play with that level of assertiveness and structure, his game could translate effectively to the next level. A Restricted Free Agent this summer, Wallinder is likely to be qualified. However, he would need to clear waivers to return to Grand Rapids - a risky proposition given his upside. That dynamic may signal a potential spot in Detroit to start the season, depending on how the organization structures its blue line.
Ondrej Becher B / C = C+
Becher delivered a strong first half, nearly matching his entire rookie season point total while taking major strides defensively. Centering a potent third line, he became a key part of the second power play unit, using his left handed shot to thread seam passes or pick corners when defenders sagged off. The second half proved more difficult. Elevated higher in the lineup, Becher struggled to sustain his offensive production against tougher matchups. As the roster stabilized - with Stachowiak arriving and injured players returning - he eventually lost his regular spot in the lineup. Becher blends skill, vision, and a growing defensive conscience. His ability to distribute on the power play and create from the middle of the ice stood out early in the season. Even when the scoring cooled, his effort and structure remained consistent. Next season will be a pivotal one for Becher. He has the tools to become a middle six offensive threat, but he'll need to show he can handle tougher matchups and maintain consistency over a full season.
Alexandre Doucet C / B = C+
With his transition from junior scoring phenom to professional role player now behind him, Doucet entered this season with recalibrated expectations centered on work ethic, puck battles, and responsible two way play. In the first half, he filled that role effectively on the fourth line - steady, unspectacular, but consistently helpful. His vision and decision making allowed him to steal pucks, extend cycles, and create chances around the net. The second half brought a welcome uptick in offense. Doucet added 9 points in 22 games, showing improved confidence with the puck and a willingness to assert himself more in the offensive zone. His progress was rewarded with a spot in the playoff lineup, where he continued to provide reliable depth minutes. Doucet's game is built on intelligence, effort, and detail. He competes hard on pucks, reads plays well, and supports his linemates with smart positioning. While he may never replicate his junior scoring totals, he has carved out a profile as a trustworthy bottom six forward who can chip in offense when needed. A restricted free agent this summer, Doucet is not a guarantee to be qualified by Detroit. If he returns, he'll look to build on his second half momentum and solidify himself as a dependable depth option with some offensive upside.
Tyler Angle C+ / C = C
Signed just before the season began, Angle used his work ethic and smooth skating to carve out a regular lineup spot. His versatility quickly became one of his biggest assets - he played both center and wing and moved up and down the lineup as needed, filling gaps and complementing a wide range of linemates. As the team unraveled late in the season, Angle's offensive game tailed off sharply. He spent stretches on the sidelines and struggled to generate the same pace and confidence he showed earlier. Despite that, he became one of the bright spots in the second round of the playoffs, stepping in as an injury replacement and providing energy, speed, and responsible minutes. Angle's game is built on skating, effort, and adaptability. He forechecks well, supports play responsibly, and can plug into virtually any role without disrupting structure. While his offensive ceiling remains modest, his ability to play multiple positions and handle different assignments gives him value as a depth forward. Angle is an unrestricted free agent in 2026-27, and it remains unclear whether he'll be retained. His versatility and willingness to play any role could make him an attractive option for organizational depth.
Nate Danielson C / C = C
The cerebral two way center had an up and down season, one that was ultimately derailed by injury but was already trending in the wrong direction before he left the lineup. After spending time in Detroit early in the year, Danielson was reassigned to Grand Rapids for further development. While he produced some points along the way, his game often lacked the urgency and intensity expected from a player with his tools. None of this is unusual for a young center adjusting to the pro game, but the rapid emergence of fellow prospects Michael Brandsegg Nygård and Emmitt Finnie cast a brighter spotlight on Danielson's struggles. Even so, his underlying toolkit remains impressive: he's a dynamic skater, sees the ice extremely well, and has strong two way instincts. Danielson lost most of the second half to injury, halting any momentum he might have built. The absence also limited his ability to adjust to the pace and physicality of the AHL, making next season a crucial step in his development. It's very possible Danielson begins next season in Grand Rapids, where he can rebuild confidence, rediscover his pace, and earn his next NHL recall through consistent play. His long term projection remains unchanged - a smart, reliable, two way center with middle six upside - but he'll need a healthy, productive year to get back on track.
Carson Bantle C+ / C = C
During the team's epic winning streak, Bantle was a highly effective presence on the fourth line. Using his 6'5" frame like a wrecking ball, he brought physicality, edge, and a willingness to battle in the corners, along the wall, and at the net front. For a stretch, he even chipped in offensively, showing flashes of surprisingly decent skill for a player with his size and role. Bantle's physicality and competitiveness were never in question - he consistently made life difficult for opposing defenders and created space for his linemates. However, his skating remains the limiting factor, preventing him from becoming a more impactful, everyday contributor. As the roster gained talent late in the season, his role diminished, and he eventually lost his lineup spot. With the team getting healthier and deeper, Bantle was ultimately reassigned to Toledo, where he finished the year. His effort and physical presence were appreciated, but he couldn't maintain a foothold in the lineup once the competition tightened. Bantle's contract with Grand Rapids is now up, and he is likely to move on. His size and physical style may earn him opportunities elsewhere, but his future in the organization appears uncertain.
Shai Buium Inc. / C = C-
After appearing in only four games during the first half due to injury, Buium struggled to find his footing in what became a difficult sophomore season. He had a brief stretch of offensive production, but it quickly dried up, and his defensive issues - already an area of concern - became more pronounced as the year went on. As the season progressed, Buium's defensive lapses and inconsistency led to a diminished role. By the end of the regular season and into the playoffs, he had lost his spot in the lineup, unable to regain the trust of the coaching staff. He finished as the only regular player with a negative rating (-2), a reflection of both his individual struggles and the disrupted nature of his season. Buium still possesses the tools that made him a second round pick - size, mobility, and offensive instincts - but this year offered little opportunity to build on them. The long injury absence, combined with uneven play, prevented him from taking the developmental step the organization hoped for. Next season will be a critical year for Buium. After what was essentially a lost campaign, he'll need to assert himself early and show meaningful progress to remain firmly in the organizational picture. With a clean slate and better health, he has the chance to reset his trajectory.
Austin Watson C / D = D+
The veteran warrior gave everything he had left to the team, but as the season wore on, it became clear that Watson didn't have much left in the tank. He continued to bring fire, compete, and physical engagement - battling in corners, along the walls, and standing up for teammates - but the wear and tear showed more each month. Frustration crept into his game as the year progressed. His offense dried up, and undisciplined penalties became a recurring issue in the second half. The turning point came in the playoffs: after a sluggish Game 1 where he looked a step behind, he lost his spot in the lineup, signaling the end of his on ice role with the team. Despite the decline, Watson's leadership remained meaningful. He was a vocal presence, a protector, and someone younger players leaned on. His departure leaves big shoes to fill in terms of accountability, toughness, and team first mentality. An unrestricted free agent, Watson appears to have reached the end of the road in his playing career. Whether he transitions into coaching, mentorship, or another role in hockey remains to be seen, but his impact on the room this season won't be easily replaced.
Dylan James - / Inc. = Inc.
After finishing his college season, James joined the Griffins and immediately made an impression in his brief stint. Despite limited games, he looked fully capable of handling the pace and physicality of the AHL, flashing the tools that make him an intriguing long term prospect. James is a rocket on skates, playing with explosive speed that stands out even at the pro level. He pairs that pace with a heavy, accurate shot and a quick release, giving him legitimate scoring potential. His forechecking was equally impressive - his speed allowed him to pin defenders, force turnovers, and surprise opponents by stripping pucks cleanly. His pace, motor, and competitiveness made him an attractive option for a playoff fill-in, and he rewarded that trust by being noticeable for all the right reasons in his postseason appearance. Even in limited minutes, he showed he could tilt the ice with energy and pressure. Next season should be James' first full year in Grand Rapids, and all signs point to him being a lot of fun to watch. With his speed, shot, and relentless work ethic, he has the potential to become a dynamic middle six winger as he gains experience.
Michael Milne - / Inc. = Inc.
Acquired during the team's acute manpower shortage in March, Milne immediately carved out a niche as a high energy depth forward. In his brief stint with Grand Rapids, he played exactly the style the team needed - fast, disruptive, and relentless. Milne was a buzzsaw on skates, bringing pace, pressure, and agitation every shift. He embraced the role of energy player and super Pest, hounding puck carriers, finishing checks, and injecting life into whichever line he joined. His game is built on motor, competitiveness, and the ability to get under opponents' skin. As injured players returned to the lineup, Milne was reassigned to Toledo to support their stretch drive. His willingness to play a hard, honest game made him a useful reinforcement at both levels. A restricted free agent, it's unclear whether he will be retained for next season. His speed, edge, and forechecking ability give him a chance to stick somewhere, but his future in the organization remains uncertain.
Jesse Kiiskinen - / Inc. = Inc.
Joining the Griffins as part of the late season influx of prospects, Kiiskinen arrived with plenty of anticipation - and he lived up to it. In just three games, he produced a goal and an assist while showing the competitiveness and maturity that made him such an intriguing addition. Kiiskinen immediately demonstrated his ability to battle into hard areas and generate scoring chances through effort and physical engagement. His forechecking stood out even more - he played a heavy, punishing style, finishing checks, disrupting breakouts, and forcing defenders into mistakes. His game translated seamlessly to the North American ice surface, where his grit and pace were noticeable every shift. What impressed most was how comfortable and assertive he looked right away. He didn't shy from contact, didn't hesitate in traffic, and consistently put himself in positions to make plays. For a late season arrival, he looked remarkably polished. Kiiskinen should be an exciting full time addition to the Griffins next season. With his blend of physicality, forechecking pressure, and scoring touch, he projects as a player who can make an immediate impact in a middle six role as he continues to develop.
Kienan Draper - / Inc. = Inc.
Fresh off a Big Ten championship and a Frozen Four appearance, Draper joined the Griffins at the conclusion of his collegiate career and immediately showed why the organization values him. He appeared in two games, bringing energy, physicality, and a relentless motor that translated seamlessly to the pro level. Draper's identity as a defensive forward was evident right away. He played with pace, finished checks, and consistently pressured puck carriers. His competitiveness and willingness to engage physically made him noticeable in limited minutes, and he looked comfortable in the structure of the AHL game. Next season marks the start of his two year contract, but his landing spot remains uncertain. Whether he begins the year in Grand Rapids or Toledo will depend on camp performance, roster depth, and how quickly he adapts to the pro pace over a full season. Draper projects as a hard working, defensively reliable forward who can kill plays, forecheck effectively, and bring energy to a bottom six role. With his pedigree, motor, and physical game, he'll be a player to watch as he begins his first full professional season.
Jacob Truscott Inc. / Inc. = Inc.
A mobile, puck moving defender, Truscott spent most of the season in the ECHL but earned call ups in both halves of the year, appearing in six AHL games each time. While he didn't stand out in a flashy way, he provided steady, reliable minutes and showed he could handle the pace at the next level. Truscott's strengths lie in his mobility and his ability to make clean, efficient passes to fuel the breakout. He plays a composed game, rarely forcing plays, and generally keeps things simple and structured. His skating allows him to stay in position defensively and retrieve pucks without panic. Though he wasn't a major difference maker in his AHL appearances, he also didn't look out of place. His calm, steady approach suggests he could grow into a dependable depth defender with more experience and physical maturity. Truscott will look to earn a full time spot on the AHL blue line next season. With continued development and a strong training camp, he has a realistic chance to secure a regular role as a stabilizing, puck moving presence.
Trey Augustine - / Inc. = Inc.
One of the organization's premier goaltending prospects, Augustine joined the Griffins after an award winning junior season at Michigan State. In a surprise move, he was given a late season start during a stretch when the team was struggling, becoming the only Griffins netminder not to record a victory this year. Augustine's debut was rocky - his first period was rough - but he settled in afterward and looked increasingly composed as the game progressed. His athleticism, technical foundation, and poise were all evident once he found his footing. Even without a win, the experience should serve as a valuable stepping stone heading into his first full pro season. The biggest question now is where he should play next season. With the organization's goaltending depth chart in flux, there's a legitimate debate: Should he play heavy minutes in the ECHL, accelerating his development through volume? Or should he take on a smaller role in the AHL, learning behind more experienced goaltenders? Both paths have merit, and the decision will likely hinge on camp performance and how the organization structures its depth. Regardless of where he starts, Augustine remains a top tier prospect with the talent to become an NHL goaltender. With a full offseason and a clearer role, he should be able to build on his brief AHL introduction and take a meaningful step forward next year.
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