The Grand Rapids Griffins, regular‑season champions of the AHL’s Central Division, are set to begin the championship series against the Chicago Wolves at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids. The best‑of‑five matchup opens with the Griffins riding a strong 6‑3‑0‑1 record against their opponents during the regular season.
Goaltending Duel Set to Define the Series
Coach Dan Watson expects an exciting series with plenty of offense and a great goaltender matchup. Michal Postava has emerged as the Griffins’ primary net‑minder in the playoffs, while the Wolves will rely on a tandem of Cayden Primeau and Amir Miftakhov. Primeau, son of former Red Wings forward Keith Primeau, brings a pedigree that could prove decisive.
Offensively, the Griffins boast a potent lineup anchored by Carter Mazur, who contributed four goals against Manitoba earlier in the postseason. John Leonard, second in the AHL with 33 regular‑season goals, did not find the net in the first round, but his presence continues to stretch defenses.
History of Close Encounters
Six of the ten regular‑season meetings between the two clubs were decided by a single goal, and five games extended to overtime or shootouts. This history of tight contests suggests that the upcoming series will likely be equally competitive.
Dan Watson emphasized that familiarity with Chicago, combined with Postava’s strong performance and the Griffins’ offensive firepower, gives Grand Rapids several advantages as they aim to capture the division title.