Among the many contributors in the Griffins' postseason return is Teemu Pulkkinen, one of several Red Wings prospects to join the team in the last month. Having already made a name for himself in Finland -- including a shot that earned its own nickname -- he hopes that he'll make North American fans take notice of his game soon.

Jeff Hoggan has led by example this season as the captain of the Griffins, and his contributions helped the team enter the postseason with momentum. As the only former Calder Cup champion on the roster, the team will lean on him for advice as they enter the playoffs.

Calle Jarnkrok grew up idolizing the Red Wings, and in late March he took the next step to joining his favorite team by joining the Griffins to adjust to North American hockey. After a whirlwind first few days, he's acclimating on and off the ice and hoping to deliver on high expectations.

Not many players have done as well in the NCAA tournament as defenseman Brett Skinner. In fact, in 17 years of the Griffins, only one other player comes close to matching Skinner’s collegiate résumé.

Former Michigan Wolverine Luke Glendening had his fair share of NCAA appearances during his college days. Familiar with the full spectrum of experiences that the tournament has to offer, Glendening understands the mentality the players need to adopt as they hit the ice this weekend.