The Detroit Red Wings’ impressive start (8-3) to the 2025-26 season also includes their minor-league affiliate Grand Rapids Griffins also bolting from the gate 6-0.
The Griffins are seeking their seventh consecutive win Saturday when they play on the road against the Rockford IceHogs. Chicago’s AHL team has started its season at 6-2, outscoring opponents 29-19. The two teams will play again Sunday in Grand Rapids (4 p.m.).
What an absolutely magical time to be covering the Grand Rapids Griffins#gogrg #lgrw https://t.co/T6viAWX4eV
— Graced By Rain (@GracedByRainPod) October 29, 2025
Rockford’s roster includes some of Chicago’s better prospects, including forward Oliver Moore, goalie Drew Commesso, and defensemen Kevin Korchinski and Ethan Del Mastro.
The Griffins have been led by John Leonard, 27, a 2018 San Jose Sharks draft pick with 70 games of NHL experience. Blessed with a scorer’s touch, Leonard scored a combined 44 goals for Charlotte in the AHL regular-season and playoffs last season.
This season, Leonard has six goals in five games. The Red Wings like him enough to consider promoting him if they need a forward. First-round pick Nate Danielson (ninth, 2023) should also get the call this season. He has three points, plus a game-winning shootout goal since rejoining the Griffins after being hurt in Detroit’s preseason.
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With the Grand Rapids Griffins off to a 6-0 start, you can better the Red Wings management wishes 6-foot-3 defenseman Anton Johansson was here to be part of it. Rough and tumble Johansson decided to return to the Swedish Hockey League where he is a beastly presence. He played 25:50 minutes and recorded six shots on goal for Leksands last night in a 4-2 loss to Farjestad, Johansson can play a physical game and chip in a bit offensively. He will rejoin the Griffins when his SHL season is over.
Hockey Now Network
Boston: Elias Lindholm has to be helped off the ice after suffering injury in a 4-3 win against the Buffalo Sabres. Boston Bruins.
Colorado: Injured goalie Mackenzie Blackwood should be ready to make his first start this weekend. Colorado Avalanche.
Florida: The Panthers’ plan is to score goals any way they can. Florida Panthers.
Philadelphia: Goalie Dan Vladar was the difference again for Flyers in win against the Nashville Predators. Philadelphia Flyers.
San Jose: Sheng Peng weighs in about whether this is the best two-week stretch of hockey in years. San Jose Sharks.
Vegas: Hannah Kirkell writes about how Cole Reinhardt’s attitude has helped him find his success. Vegas Golden Knights.