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3 Grand Rapids Griffins Standouts Round 2, Game 1

These were the 3 best players on the ice for the Grand Rapids Griffins in round 2, game 1 of the playoffs.

By Kaitlyn Glaza |
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After an eternity came to an end, the Grand Rapids Griffins played their first game in round 2 of the playoffs. 

In contrast to their opponents who played within the last few days, it was a foregone conclusion the Grand Rapids Griffins would need to regain their timing, legs, and enthusiasm. 

Coaching staff and players alike seemed to have missed this memo, as they played well. Some passes were just a bit off, positioning just a hair out of place, and shots fired just a tad wide or high happened. The last period wasn’t their best, but nothing is perfect. All we can ask for is moving in the right direction and the Grand Rapids Griffins are doing just that.

 For a team that had a 9-day layoff, I really couldn’t ask more from them.

There were plenty of options for the standout players of the game. Honestly, the coaching staff may deserve the most credit. How they got the team ready at puck drop is something that still amazes me. The Grand Rapids Griffins were a strong, well-rounded team last night. They started on time and kept their foot on the gas as much as they could.

Of all the player performances, these 3 rose above the rest.

One recurring member is on the list, but this game we have 2 newcomers to the list.

Marco Kasper

I hear you, there has to be someone aside from Marco Kasper performing well-enough to make this list. There are definitely players pushing for his spot on this list. It would be a disservice, though, to Kasper if I didn’t include him on the list.

The skill part of his game has been improving all season. Throughout the playoffs, he made great plays that are just now showing up on the scoresheet. These points demonstrate only a minimal part of what makes Kasper so successful.

With 6 points in his last 5 games, Kasper is on fire, points-wise.

However, it’s all the little things that make him the most valuable player (MVP) within this playoff run so far.  It’s saying something considering Jonatan Berggren has all 3 game winning goals.

While Berggren has played well, as many other Grand Rapids Griffins players have, Kasper stands out for countless reasons. 

From his competitive edge to his play in all 3 zones, standing up for himself and his teammate to improving in his face-off wins, to playing a mature-style game with unmatched effort, Kasper is a complete player. 

While effectiveness of Kasper can be questioned, maybe a bit more offensive prowess could be asked at times, nobody could ever ask him to work harder. Maybe Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, and Moritz Seider are the only 3 players in the Detroit Red Wings who put in as much effort as I’ve seen from Kasper.

Of course, effort does not equate to MVP. The effectiveness and output of his game is finally coming around to match his determination. When these hard work and talent intersect, a scary, good player emerges.


Here’s his assist on the Zach Aston-Reese goal:

Thus far in 5 playoff games, Kasper has accumulated 5 points (3 goals, 2 assists).

Joel L’Esperance

Another player who started off quiet, but not for lack of effort, is Joel L’Esperance. He’s always an incredibly hard worker. He hounded pucks and opponents equally, making smart, simple plays. Sometimes L’Esperance tries doing too much or playing outside of himself. 

However, the ineffective plays and over-extending himself didn’t happen often. It was an impressive game from him and his linemates.

Before he even scored, I thought L’Esperance was the best player on the ice through the first period of play.

Later on in the game, L’Esperance was rewarded with an empty net goal:

L’Esperance and his fellow veterans are integral parts of the Grand Rapids Griffins team, keeping things calm and collected throughout the playoff run.

In 5 games so far, L’Esperance has 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists).

Carter Mazur

Finally gracing this list of standout players, Carter Mazur climbed aboard. 

Much like Kasper, one never can question Mazur’s work ethic. He’s a hard-nosed player who plays without much nonsense in his game. 

The top line of Mazur along with Berggren and Austin Czarnik has been a good one. I’d argue, the mix with Kasper on the top line was great too, but it’s a small gripe in the grand scheme of things.

Mazur’s game seems to be heating up as the playoffs go along. He’s getting more comfortable and confident in himself and his game. 

In 5 playoff games so far, Mazur has 5 total points (2 goals, 3 assists).

Next. May 15. Bad news for Jonatan Berggren, here's what and why!. dark

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