DETROIT - The Grand Rapids Griffins dropped a 2-1 decision to the Lake Erie Monsters in Thursday evening's scrimmage at Joe Louis Arena.

The Monsters broke a 1-1 tie in the third period on a power play goal against Jordan Pearce with nine minutes remaining, then held on to defeat the Griffins in their only action of the preseason. Grand Rapids took to the ice while more than a half dozen of its top players remained in camp with the Detroit Red Wings.

After Lake Erie opened the scoring by beating Thomas McCollum in the second period, Tomas Tatar answered for Grand Rapids on assists from Francis Pare and Willie Coetzee. McCollum yielded to Pearce midway through the second frame.

According to Griffins general manager Bob McNamara, several Grand Rapids players enjoyed particularly strong performances, including Tatar, Pare, Logan Pyett and both goaltenders.

After concluding their training camp in Detroit this weekend, the Griffins will hold their first local practice on Monday, Oct. 4 at 10:30 a.m. at Griff’s IceHouse.

The Griffins will aim for their 15th consecutive opening night sellout next Friday, Oct. 8 when they host the Abbotsford Heat at 7 p.m., marking the first time since 2005 that they’ll open the AHL’s regular season at home. Tickets are still available by visiting griffinshockey.com or calling the Griffins at (616) 774-4585.