The Grand Rapids Griffins, the AHL affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings, have always been known for engaging fan experiences and creative promotions. Their latest initiative turned heads across Michigan’s sports scene: the Griffins sported special jerseys that paid tribute to the Detroit Pistons, and it was glorious, to say the least.
This cross-sport salute saw the hockey team donning the teal-era Pistons, complete with the 'Griffins' script across the front, with a Griffin with its hair on fire as the crest.
The event wasn’t just a visual treat—it underscored the unique camaraderie among Detroit’s professional sports teams. Fans at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids were treated to a great night of hockey and a great-looking jersey for a great-looking team.
The jersey swap not only celebrated Detroit’s sporting culture but also highlighted the strong bonds between the Griffins, Pistons, and Detroit sports fans in general. This may have been the best custom jersey blend Grand Rapids has completed to date. Judging by the buzz on social media and in the local press, this innovative promotion was a slam dunk.
Jersey Drop ⬇️ 🔥 #GoGRG pic.twitter.com/k8hUAbwprC
— Grand Rapids Griffins (@griffinshockey) September 11, 2025
To make matters better, the Griffins beat Cleveland 5-0 behind a Carter Gylander shutout, the first of his AHL career. The victory represents the Griffins' 14th straight victory, earning them 51 points in just 27 games this season.
That is 50-plus points in three fewer games than any team in AHL history. It just highlights how good a season the Griffins are enjoying. They are 25-1-0-1 on the season, which leads the second-place Manitoba Moose by 19 points in the Central Division.
Patrick Kane injury continues to sideline the star forward
Patrick Kane missed his fifth straight game on Tuesday night when the Detroit Red Wings defeated the Dallas Stars before enjoying some downtime for the Christmas break.
Detroit recalled John Leonard, who was tearing it up for the Griffins this season, leading them with 19 goals and 29 points in 20 games. That production has carried over at the NHL level. In his first five games replacing Kane, Leonard has recorded a pair of goals and has added an assist while skating primarily on the second line. Kane, who sits just two goals shy of 500, has totaled six goals and 23 points over 24 games this season for the Red Wings.
Even though it seems Leonard might carve out a role for himself in Detroit, the Red Wings should remain optimistic that Kane will return to action as early as Saturday, when Detroit faces Carolina following the Christmas break. The team and fans alike are hopeful that the extra rest will allow him to recover and rejoin the lineup for what promises to be a high-energy matchup.