Griffins Report Week 5: Jonatan Berggren is Turning Heads

The Grand Rapids Griffins played three hard games, and all games went into OT, with the Griffins winning one of three. They opened the week with a 2-1 OT loss in their home matinee game with the Chicago Wolves. On the weekend, the Griffins split their games in Texas with a 5-4 OT win on Friday and a 4-3 OT loss to the Stars on Saturday.

Player to Watch

Jonatan Berggren

Jonatan Berggren has steadily improved while playing for the Griffins.  Berggren scored two goals in Saturday’s game against the Texas Stars.

Berggren is now 3rd in team scoring with five goals and 10 points and a +3 rating in 14 games.

Every week, Berggren is getting closer to being ready for his jump to the NHL.  There is no doubt that Berggren will be recalled by the trade deadline in March.

Detroit Prospect Update

Taro Hirose continues to lead the Griffins in scoring with 12 assists and 15 points in 14 games.  The Red Wings continue to keep Hirose buried in the AHL.  At some point, the 25-year-old Hirose either needs to be promoted to the Red Wings or ask for a chance in another organization.

Chase Pearson continues to show that he is ready for a chance at the next level.  He has 10 points in 13 games and plays in all situations for the Griffins.

Donovan Sebrango had a very good week in Grand Rapids.  At 19, Sebrango plays at a high level on defense, could be on Canada’s entry at the World Junior Championships at Christmas, and is showing the Red Wings that he could possibly play in the NHL next year.  On Friday night, Sebrango earned two assists and currently leads the Griffins with a +8 rating.

Jared McIsaac looks like his development at the AHL level has stalled.  He continues to only have three assists in 14 games and has a -7 rating on the season.

Calvin Pickard has been nothing short of terrific for the Griffins all year long.  He played all three games last week, and in 11 games, has a record of 6-2-2, a 2.24 GAA, and a .931 SV%.

Next Week

The Griffins have another three game week this week.  They begin the week at Milwaukee playing the Admirals.  Game time is 8:00 PM ET at BMO Harris Bradley Center in Milwaukee, WI.

On Friday, the Griffins are back at home playing against the Chicago Wolves.  Game time is 7:00 PM ET at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, MI.

Sunday afternoon, the Griffins go back on the road to play Chicago in an afternoon affair at 4:00 PM ET.  The game will be held at Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL.