On an uncharacteristially warm October evening, the Grand Rapids Griffins took to the ice against the Manitoba Moose for their first home game of the season.
The Griffins (1-0-1) had two new stars make their debuts tonight: free agent signee Chase Stillman and 2024 first round pick Carter Bear. All eyes were on Bear as he took to the ice for his first professional game, playing on the second line alongside Theo Rochette and Wilmer Skoog.
While he didn't wind up on the scoresheet, he was relentless, ending the night with two shots on net and a few fantastic passes. His dogged determination - reminiscent of former Red Wing Tyler Bertuzzi - was on full display last night, showing the Detroit Red Wings that their investment in him will soon pay off.
Bear wasn't the only player to excel last night, though. These three prospects went above and beyond to showcase their skills at the Griffins' home opener.
Dylan James is a fantastic penalty killer
James, the 40th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, made his pro debut last year, finishing off his season with two goals in two games with the Griffins. This time around, he's determined to make a major impact on the ice in more ways than one. Last night, James played a pivotal role in keeping the Griffins' penalty kill at an elite level.
"That's what he's known for," said head coach Dan Watson on James' penalty killing ability. "He was a real good penalty killer in school. We knew what we were getting from him...the exhibition games we saw him play in and the first three games this last season have really impressed us. He can use his speed -- he did that tonight. And he and (Kienan Draper) are excellent on the penalty kill."
When asked about James' role moving forward, Watson looked forward to seeing what he can continue to do moving forward.
"We need him to step up and play that role for us."
Michal Postava is playing more confidently than ever
Last season, Postava finished off the year with a 1.71 goals against average (GAA) and a .937 save percentage in 25 starts. In his first game at home, Postava saved 36 of 37 shots, earning First Star honors, a 1.02 goals against average and a .972 save percentage.
Talk about a good first impression.
"He was outstanding tonight," Watson said. "Without him, we don't win that game. He was excellent. He made some really big saves and in big moments -- especially when they had that momentum going. He held strong."
While Postava will be splitting the net 50/50 with Trey Augustine (per Watson), this is certainly a sign that the Czech netminder will be trusted with tougher assignments moving forward.
Carter Bear is unstoppable
There was never a point during last night's game where Bear wasn't noticeable. Whether he was setting up line mate Theo Rochette for a key breakaway or throwing his body at whichever member of the Manitoba Moose got too close, he played a jack of all trades game that kept his opponents guessing.
Now, it's important to note that Bear is still getting his footing at the professional level. This is the highest level of talent he's played against thus far in his career and there will likely be growing pains as the season rolls on. But, as far as first impressions go, he's sure to become a fan favorite in Grand Rapids.
Despite little hiccups in his game, he adjusted quickly, recovering the puck seconds after accidentally turning it over. What's especially exciting about watching Bear play is that he's just as good at crashing the net as he is firing at the net from the point. He can set up shots, throw his body and skate into defensive positioning with ease. It's going to be very fun to watch him develop as a player.
"Obviously, it's next level when compared to the WHL," Bear began. "A lot bigger, stronger. The puck's quicker. It was awesome. Grand Rapids has a crazy atmosphere and really good fans. I'm looking forward to the future."
So are many fans, who hope for a much better future than the present Red Wings they're subject to right now.
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