Where the Griffins excel defensively
Erik Gustafsson - Anton Johansson
William Lagesson - Axel Sandin-Pellikka
William Wallinder - Antti Tuomisto
Gustafsson has incredible for the Griffins. He’s provided leadership to the young defensemen while helping bolster the Grand Rapids power play.
In the final games of the regular, Anton Johansson served as a formidable partner for the veteran Swede. Johansson’s physical, effective two-way play is a great foil to Gustafsson cerebral style. There’s also plenty of room for Johansson to grow in the offensive zone. His game has only seemed to improve the more comfortable he gets in the AHL.
Lagesson and Sandin-Pellikka have played well together, as well. Almost an inverse of the top pairing, Lagesson is a reliable veteran who hits hard and plays an effective game all over the ice. Sandin-Pellikka, on the other hand, is a flashy defenseman dripping with potential. In only six games with the Griffins in the regular season, Sandin-Pellikka scored twice and assisted on one goal for three total points.
Wallinder and Tuomisto are both promising young defensemen. No matter where their careers continue next season, both are likely to get the nod in the Game One lineup. Wallinder is a smooth skater and Tuomisto is one mean Finn (at least against opponents on the ice, that is. Off the ice, he’s a gentleman).
How the reserves can bolster Grand Rapids' defense
Shai Buium
Alex Kannok Leipert
In terms of reserves, both Buium and Kannok Leipert could easily swap in for the defensemen who are expected to play. On any other rendition of a team, they’re likely in the top-six. As the series goes along, don’t be surprised to see them swap in regardless of injuries or how others play.
Add us as a preferred source on Google