The Grand Rapids Griffins outscored the Manitoba Moose by 70 goals in the regular season and in Game 1 of their playoff series Saturday the Moose beat them 1-0.

Goalie Domenic Divincentiis’ 39-save victory against the Griffins has added anxiety to the Griffins’ playoff status.

If Grand Rapids loses Game 2 today on the road against the Moose (3 p.m.), the Griffins would then need to win three consecutive games at home to capture the five-game series.

The Griffins’ playoff participation has high-level importance to the Red Wings. GM Steve Yzerman and his staff would like to see the Griffins make an extended run to see which of the Grand Rapids goalies is ready to join Detroit roster next season. Michal Postava received the first start and only gave up one goal. Sebastian Cossa is the likely starter in Game 2.

The Red Wings would also like to see whether linemates Carter Mazur, Amadeus Lombardi and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard are close to make contributions in Detroit. The trio produced 10 shots on goal in Game 1.

Likewise, the Red Wings want a long look at defensemen Axel Sandin-Pellikka, William Wallinder and Anton Johansson. The latter played a strong Game 1 with four shots on goal.

Is it too early to say Game 2 is a must-win for the Griffins? They need a win to put the Red Wings management at ease.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Detroit defenseman Justin Faulk sees both problems and promise with the Red Wings.

If the Red Wings and Simon Edvinsson decide on a long-term deal, we see the Swedish defenseman coming in just below Moritz Seider in terms of AAV

This summer is not too early to start thinking about re-signing Alex DeBrincat. He wants to stay.

Red Wings Extra

The Fargo Force downed Detroit prospect Brent Solomon’s Sioux Falls Stampede 2-1 in overtime to tie their USHL playoff series 1-1. Solomon was not on the scoresheet.

Hockey Now Digest

New Jersey: New GM Sunny Mehta is already making changes, but it’s to the front office, not the roster. That comes later. New Jersey Devils

Philadelphia: The Carolina Hurricanes are not the Penguins. Coach Rod Brind’Amour’s team humbles the Philadelphia Flyers.

Pittsburgh: If it were up to the Pittsburgh players, Evgeni Malkin would be back on the roster next season. Pittsburgh Penguins.