As the Grand Rapids Griffins begin their 28th season overall on Friday against Colorado, let’s take a quick look at all of the coaches and players on the opening-night roster.

The Griffins’ roster is comprised of five players who qualify as an AHL rookie and five players who are classified as veterans (260+ pro games played at NHL, AHL or top European league level).

COACHING STAFF

Head coach Dan Watson

First year as head coach…Head coach of the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye from 2016-19 and 2021-23…Led Toledo to a 45-19-5-3 record (0.681) and a second-place finish in the Central Division in 2022-23…Went 9-4 in the 2023 Kelly Cup Playoffs to reach the Western Conference Finals…Been with the Red Wings organization for the past 14 years, holding multiple roles with the Walleye since the team’s inception…Served two seasons (2014-16) as Toledo’s associate head coach alongside head coach Derek Lalonde, who enters his second season behind the Red Wings’ bench…Reached the Kelly Cup Finals twice (2019 and 2022) and led Toledo to three division titles (2016-17, 2017-18 and 2021-22), three 100-point seasons (2016-17, 2017-18 and 2021-22), two regular-season championships (2016-17 and 2021-22), and four Western Conference Finals berths (2017, 2019, 2022 and 2023)…2016-17 John Brophy Award winner as the ECHL’s Coach of the Year…Fastest coach in ECHL history to reach 100 wins and the winningest head coach in Walleye history…Enters the campaign with a 272-112-22-13 (0.691) record during the regular season and a 51-34 (0.600) mark over only five playoff campaigns…Signed as a free agent defenseman with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2000, Watson went on to collect 89 points (23-66—89) and 394 penalty minutes in 410 pro regular-season games between the AHL, ECHL and UHL.

Assistant coach Steph Julien

First season as an assistant coach for the Griffins…Last season, named the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) Coach of the Year as well as the QMJHL General Manager of the Year when he helped lead the Sherbrooke Phoenix to a Central Division title and a trip to the QMJHL semifinals with a 50-13-3-2 regular-season record (0.772)…Earned a gold medal as an assistant coach for Team Canada at the 2023 World Junior Championship…Guided Canada’s U18 squad to a gold medal at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup…Head coached Canada’s Black U17 squad at World U17 Hockey Challenge, claiming a bronze medal…Began national coaching career in 2017 as an assistant coach for Team Canada at 2017 World Junior Championship, earning a silver medal…Served as an assistant coach for Sherbrooke in the QMJHL from 2012-16 before being named head coach midway through the 2015-16 season…QMJHL Coach of the Year in 2019-20…As head coach, notched a 262-161-24-17 record (0.609) with three division titles and one league championship…Served as Sherbrooke’s general manager from 2020-23…Named 2022-23 QMJHL General Manager of the Year…Collected 667 points (205-462—667) in 775 pro games from 1995-2012, playing majority of career overseas in Austria, France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland.

Assistant coach Brian Lashoff

First season as an assistant coach for the Griffins…Spent all or part of 14 seasons (2008-13; 2014-23) on the Griffins’ blue line, including the last three as the team’s captain…Competed in seven campaigns (2012-15; 2016-20) with the Detroit Red Wings…Two-time Calder Cup champion with Grand Rapids (2013, 2017)…Playing captain at the 2023 AHL All-Star Classic, marking first career all-star nod…Ranks second on Griffins’ all-time games played list with 628, totaling 132 points (32-100—132)…One for four defensemen and 12 skaters to record 100 career assists for Grand Rapids…Contributed 20 points in 75 playoff games for the Griffins, second-most postseason appearances in franchise history…Logged 15 points (2-13—15) in 136 regular-season games with the Red Wings…Played entire career within Red Wings organization, making pro debut with the Griffins at the age of 18…After going undrafted out of the OHL, went on to suit up for 767 professional games and registered 148 points (34-114—148) and 394 penalty minutes…Gold medal with Team USA at 2010 World Junior Championship.

FORWARDS

#11 Joel L’Esperance | 6-2, 210 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Paced the team with 25 goals and tied a career-best 49 points (25-24—49) in 72 games with the Griffins…Fourteen power-play goals ranked third in the AHL a season ago and 247 shots placed second.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Sixth year pro … Paced the Grand Rapids Griffins with 25 goals in first season with franchise in 2022-23 … Tied a career-high 49 points (25-24—49) in 72 games during the 2022-23 season … Posted a career-best 14 power-play goals in 2022-23, which ranked third in the AHL … Scored 100th pro goal on March 10, 2023 against the Rockford IceHogs … Appeared in 200th AHL game on Nov. 25, 2022 against the Manitoba Moose … Registered career-high numbers in games played (62), points (49), assists (25) and shots (197) during the 2021-22 season with the Texas Stars (AHL) … Competed at the 2019-20 AHL All-Star Game … Bagged a career-best 30 goals with Texas during rookie season in 2018-19 … Skated in an NHL career-high 18 games with the Dallas Stars during the 2018-19 season … Made NHL debut on Feb. 16, 2019 at Carolina … Potted first NHL point on a goal at Minnesota on March 14, 2019 … Made AHL/pro debut on March 28, 2018 with the Texas Stars at Grand Rapids … Notched first pro point with a game-winning goal on April 7, 2018 against Rockford (AHL) … Throughout four seasons with Michigan Tech University (MTU) from 2014-18, accumulated 98 points (46-52—98) and 132 penalty minutes in 152 outings … Two-time WCHA champion with MTU from 2016-18 … In the USHL from 2011-14, tallied 67 points (37-30—67) and 101 penalty minutes in 111 games.z

#12 Zach Aston-Reese | 6-0, 204 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Competed in a career-high 77 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs … Posted 14 points (10-4—14), 25 penalty minutes and a minus-six rating … 10 goals set a new career best.

Career Highlights: First season as a Griffin … Seventh year pro … Competed in a career-high 77 NHL games and showed a career-best 10 goals during the 2022-23 season with Toronto … NHL career-high 10 assists during the 2021-22 season … Set a NHL career best with 17 points (8-9—17) during the 2018-19 campaign … Made NHL debut on Feb. 3, 2018 at the New Jersey Devils … Scored first NHL goal on Feb. 13, 2018 against Ottawa … During rookie season in 2017-18, posted AHL career highs in games played (41), goals (9), assists (20), points (29), penalty minutes (49) and plus-minus rating (+21) … Made AHL and pro debut on March 21, 2017 against Hartford, scoring a goal in the process … In 2016-17 at Northeastern University, was named the HockeyEast Player of the Year, the New England MVP and garnered a spot on the HockeyEast First All-Star Team … Also in 2016-17, paced the NCAA with 31 goals and 63 points en route to being named a First-Team All-American and a Hobey Baker Award Finalist … Won the 2016 HockeyEast championship and was named to the Second All-Star Team … At Northeastern University from 2013-17, amassed 148 points (66-82—148) and 182 penalty minutes in 145 contests … In 2011-12, competed in the USHL/NHL Top Prospects Game … Competed in the USHL from 2010-13 and accumulated 50 points (16-34—50) and 188 penalty minutes in 140 games.

#17 Taro Hirose | 5-10, 170 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Led the Griffins with 57 points and 41 assists…Notched career-high numbers in games played (71), goals (16), assists (41) and points (57)…Suited up for three games with the Red Wings.

Career: Fifth season as a Griffin … Fifth year pro … Paced the Griffins with 57 points and 41 assists during the 2022-23 season … Notched career highs in games played (71), goals (16), assists (41) and points (57) during the 2022-23 season … Posted career-high numbers in games played (59), goals (15), assists (38), points (53), shots (122) and power-play goals (2) during the 2021-22 season with Grand Rapids … In 2020-21, finished second on the Griffins in points (28), points per game (0.97) and paced the team in assists (23), which is a career high … Named to Detroit’s opening night roster in 2019-20 and logged 26 NHL games in his inaugural full pro season … Scored seven points (1-6—7) in 10 games during his NHL debut with Detroit at the end of the 2018-19 season … During his junior season at Michigan State in 2018-19, was named a Hobey Baker Award finalist, a First Team All-American, the Big Ten Player of the Year and a unanimous All-Big Ten First Team selection … Led the NCAA in multi-point games (15) and three-point games (9), while tying for the lead with 50 points, ranking third with 1.39 points per game and second with 35 assists … 50 points marked the highest total for a Spartan since John-Michael Liles notched 50 in 2002-03 … Became the first Spartan to hit the 100-career point mark since 2009 … All-Big Ten Second Team selection in 2017-18.

#20 Elmer Soderblom | 6-8, 255 lbs.

Drafted: 6th round, 159th overall, in 2019 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Made Griffins/AHL debut on Dec. 9…Finished the AHL season with eight points (5-3—8) and 10 penalty minutes…Standing at 6-foot-8, became tallest player to play for the Griffins…Scored a goal during NHL debut with Detroit against Montreal during Opening Night on Oct. 14…Collected eight points (5-3—8) and eight penalty minutes in 21 games for Detroit.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Fourth year pro … Scored a goal during NHL debut with Detroit against Montreal on Oct. 14, 2022 … Made AHL debut with Griffins on Dec. 9, 2022 at Springfield, becoming the tallest player to compete for Grand Rapids at 6-foot-8 … Notched first AHL goal and point during a three-point contest (2-1—3) on Jan. 29, 2023 at Chicago … Ended rookie NHL campaign with eight points (5-3—8) in 21 games … Finished AHL rookie season with eight points (5-3—8) in 20 contests … Signed to a three-year entry-level contract by Detroit on June 9, 2022 … Paced Frolunda HC (SHL) with 21 goals in the 2021-22 season, which also tied for seventh in the league … Named the 2021-22 Young Player of the Year by E.H.C Alliance, awarded to the most valuable U22 player in European hockey … Collected first pro goal and point on Jan. 9, 2021 against Farjestad BK (SHL) … Skated in first pro playoff contest on April 5, 2021 against Djurgardens IF (SHL) … Represented Team Sweden at the 2021 World Junior Championship … Won the Champions Hockey League with Frolunda in 2020 … Signed first pro contract on April 3, 2020 with Frolunda HC for two years … Made SHL and pro debut on Nov. 23, 2019 against Linkoping HC … Skated in first game in the HockeyAllsvenskan with Tingsryd on Jan. 17, 2020 against MoDo Hockey … Won a silver medal with Sweden at the 2019 Hlinka Gretzky Cup … Collected a gold medal at the U18 World Junior Championship in 2019.

#21 Nolan Stevens | 6-2, 195 lbs.

Drafted: 5th round, 125th overall, in 2016 by St. Louis

2022-23 Stats: Posted career-high numbers in goals (15), points (33), plus-minus rating (+9), penalty minutes (17), power-play goals (4) and shots (86) with the Utica Comets…Skated in first pro postseason with Utica, showing two points (1-1—2) in six outings.

Career Highlights: First season as a Griffin … Sixth year pro … Posted career-high numbers in goals (15), points (33), plus-minus rating (+9), penalty minutes (17), power-play goals (4) and shots (86) during the 2022-23 season with the Utica Comets (AHL) … Skated in first pro postseason with Utica in the 2023 Calder Cup Playoffs, showing two points (1-1—2) in six outings … Made Calder Cup debut on April 19, 2023 at Laval (AHL) … Amassed a career-high 22 assists in 50 games during the 2019-20 campaign with San Antonio (AHL) … Made AHL and pro debut with San Antonio on Oct. 6, 2018 against Grand Rapids … Recorded first pro point with an assist on Oct. 19, 2018 at Manitoba … Scored first pro goal on Nov. 24, 2018 at Texas … Bagged two assists on Nov. 4, 2018 at Bakersfield for first two-point night as a pro … Tallied two goals in a game for the first time on Dec. 22, 2019 at Manitoba … Spent four seasons at Northeastern University from 2014-18 and totaled 118 points (57-61—118) in 132 games … Served as captain during senior season at Northeastern University in 2017-18 … Made collegiate debut on Oct. 11, 2014 against Vermont … Named to the 2017-18 Hockey East Second All-Star Team … Garnered a spot on the 2015-16 Hockey East Honorable Mention All-Star Team and the Hockey East All-Tournament Team en route to claiming the Hockey East championship … Scored first collegiate point and goal during a two-point night (1-1—2) on Nov. 15, 2014 versus New Hampshire … Won a gold medal for Team USA at the 2014 World Junior Championship.

#26 Tim Gettinger | 6-6, 220 lbs.

Drafted: 5th round, 141st overall, in 2016 by New York Rangers

2022-23 Stats: Posted career-high totals in points (35) and assists (22) to go along with 13 goals with the Hartford Wolf Pack…Showed eight points (2-6—8) in nine postseason games in the AHL.

Career Highlights: First season as a Griffin … Sixth year pro … Notched career-high totals in points (35) and assists (22) during the 2022-23 season with the Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL) … Posted a career-high 39 penalty minutes during the 2021-22 campaign with Hartford … Served as an alternate captain for Hartford in the 2021-22 season … Skated in a career-high eight NHL games with the New York Rangers during the 2021-22 campaign … Bagged a career-high six power-play goals and four game-winners during the 2020-21 campaign … Career-high 16 goals in 2019-20 with Hartford … Spent five seasons with Hartford to begin pro career from 2018-23, showing 133 points (62-71—133) in 237 appearances … Scored first NHL point with an assist on Nov. 22, 2019 at the Ottawa Senators … Made AHL and pro debut with Hartford on Oct. 5, 2018 against the Providence Bruins, scoring a goal in the process … Made NHL debut with the New York Rangers on Nov. 24, 2018 against the Washington Capitals … Spent four seasons in the OHL with the Soo Greyhounds from 2014-18 and served as their alternate captain from 2015-17 before earning the captainship in 2017-18 … Compiled 187 points (91-96—187) in 242 OHL contests … In 2015-16, named to the CHL Top Prospects Game and the USA Hockey CCM All-American Prospects Game … Garnered a spot on the 2015 OHL First All-Rookie Team when he recorded 25 points (10-15—25) in 54 games.

#27 Austin Czarnik | 5-8, 170 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Accumulated 37 points (14-23—37) in 43 games during first season with the Griffins…Paced the team with five game-winners and three shorthanded tallies…Fourth AHL hat trick came on Oct. 15, which marked the earliest recorded by a Griffin to start a season (2nd game)…Totaled five points (3-2—5) in 29 games with the Detroit Red Wings.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Ninth year pro … Registered fourth AHL hat trick on Oct. 15, 2022 against the San Diego Gulls, which marked the earliest recorded by a Griffin to start a season (2nd game), and it tied for the fastest hat trick to start a Griffin’s career (2nd game) … Named the Howies Hockey Tape/AHL Player of the Week on Oct. 17, 2022 when he totaled five points (3-2—5) in two games … Recorded NHL career-high numbers in points (18), goals (6), assists (12) and games played (54) during the 2018-19 season with the Calgary Flames … Notched AHL career-best numbers in points (69), goals (25), assists (44) and games played (64) with the Providence Bruins in the 2017-18 campaign … Represented Providence at the 2017-18 AHL All-Star Game in addition to being named to the AHL Second All-Star Team … Paced all AHL rookies with 61 points (20-41—61) en route to being named to the AHL All-Rookie Team in 2015-16 … Two-time captain for Miami University of Ohio from 2013-15 … In 2014-15, won the NCHC title, and selected to the NCHC Second All-Star Team, NCAA West Second All-American Team and the NCAA Lowes Senior Class All-Americans Second Team … Named to the NCHC First All-Star Team and the NCAA West Second All-American Team in 2013-14 … Hobey Baker Award Finalist, CCHA First All-Star Team nominee, NCAA West First All-American Team selection, CCHA Player of the Year and regular season champion in 2012-13 … Selected to the CCHA All-Rookie Team and named a top three player on Team USA at the U20 World Junior Championship in 2011-12 … Represented Green Bay at the 2010-11 USHL All-Star Game … Won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2009-10 U18 World Junior Championship.

#32 Tyler Spezia | 5-10, 175 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Accumulated 15 points (2-13—15) and a career-high 32 penalty minutes in 65 games with the Griffins…Became just the 37th player to reach at least five seasons with Grand Rapids.

Career Highlights: Sixth season as a Griffin … Sixth year pro … In 2022-23, became just the 37th player to reach at least five seasons with the Griffins … Notched a career-high 32 penalty minutes in 65 games during the 2022-23 campaign … Skated in 250th pro game on Feb. 15 against Rockford … In fourth season with Grand Rapids, totaled career-high numbers in games played (74), goals (13), assists (22), points (35) and penalty minutes (24) during the 2021-22 campaign … Bagged a career-best two game-winning goals for the Griffins in 2020-21 … Notched a career-high nine points (6-3—9) and 18 penalty minutes with Grand Rapids in 2019-20 … Helped lead the Toledo Walleye to their first trip to the 2019 Kelly Cup Finals after skating in all 24 postseason games and scoring 12 points … Contributed two points and skated in eight games while making his AHL debut with the Griffins in 2018-19 … Two-time selection (2017, 2016) to the WCHA All-Academic Team … Scored a collegiate career-high 30 points as a junior at Bowling Green State and tied for second on the team in scoring.

#48 Jonatan Berggren | 6-0, 190 lbs.

Drafted: 2nd round, 33rd overall, in 2018 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Logged seven points (4-3—7) in seven game with the Griffins … In first NHL season, posted 28 points (15-13—28) in 67 appearances … Made NHL debut on Nov. 10 against the New York Rangers, collecting an assist in the process … Scored first NHL goal on Nov. 15 at the Anaheim Ducks.

Career Highlights: Third season as a Griffin … Sixth year pro … Made NHL debut with Detroit on Nov. 10, 2022 against the New York Rangers, collecting an assist in the process … Scored first NHL goal on Nov. 15, 2022 at the Anaheim Ducks … Finished NHL rookie season with 28 points (15-13—28) in 67 games … Ranked seventh among NHL rookies with 15 goals during the 2022-23 campaign … Registered an assist in Team Sweden debut at the World Championship on May 12, 2023 against Germany … Broke the Grand Rapids Griffins’ rookie single season scoring record in 2021-22 with 64 points, five more than the previous record held by Teemu Pulkkinen (2013-14) … In 2021-22, became the first rookie to lead the Griffins in assists with 43, and the third rookie to pace the team in either points or game-winning goals … Named the American Hockey League Rookie of the Month in April 2022 when he scored 20 points (6-14—20) in 14 outings … Ranked second among AHL rookies with 64 points in 2021-22 and tied for first among first-year players in the AHL with 43 assists … 2020 U20 World Junior Championship Bronze Medal winner … 2018 Hlinka Memorial Bronze Medal recipient … Averaged 1.5 PPG and led Sweden’s highest-level junior hockey league in scoring with 57 points (18-39—57) over 38 contests played in 2018-19, leading the circuit in both assists and points … Logged 10 points (5-5—10) in seven games during the 2017 IIHF World U18 Championship … Made pro debut with Skelleftea on Nov. 18, 2017 in the SHL at age 17 … Logged three points (2-1—3) and won a gold medal with Sweden during the 2017 IIHF U17 World Hockey Challenge … Led the J20 SuperElit league in points (57) and assists (39) in 2017-18 … Won a SHL silver medal with Skelleftea in 2017-18 … In 2015-16, paced the TV-Pucken tournament with 18 helpers, nine goals and 27 points.

#65 Dominik Shine | 5-11, 180 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Logged 25 points (14-11—25) and 53 penalty minutes in 69 games in seventh season with the Griffins…On April 6, became just the seventh player in Griffins’ franchise history to reach 350 games played.

Career Highlights: Eighth season as a Griffin … Seventh year pro … On April 6, 2023 at Manitoba, became just the seventh player in Griffins’ franchise history to reach 350 games played … Totaled career-high numbers in goals (17), assists (15), points (32), penalty minutes (141), shots (122), power-play goals (3) and shorthanded goals (3) during the 2021-22 campaign with the Griffins … Recorded 16 points (8-8—16) in 58 games during his rookie season with Grand Rapids in 2017-18 … Made his professional debut with the Griffins on March 19, 2017 at Milwaukee … Led the WCHA in goals with 20 in 2016-17 and was named an All-WCHA Third Team selection … Served as an alternate captain during his junior and senior seasons at Northern Michigan … Finished second on Northern Michigan in points in 2015-16 and was named to the All-WCHA Second Team … Totaled three career hat tricks at Northern Michigan … Captained Lincoln (USHL) during his final two seasons.

#71 Cross Hanas | 6-1, 184 lbs.

Drafted: 2nd round, 55th overall, in 2020 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Recorded 17 points (9-8—17) and 22 penalty minutes in 30 games during rookie season with the Griffins…Made pro debut with Grand Rapids on Oct. 14 against San Diego…Scored first pro point and goal on Oct. 15 versus San Diego…Missed 42 of the 72 total games (58.3%) due to rehabbing an injury.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Second year pro … Made pro debut with the Griffins on Oct. 14 against the San Diego Gulls … Scored first pro point and goal on Oct. 15 against the San Diego Gulls … Notched 17 points (9-8—17) and 22 penalty minutes during rookie pro season in 2022-23 with Grand Rapids … Paced the Portland Winterhawks (WHL) in points (86) and assists (60) in 2021-22 … Ranked ninth in the Western Hockey League in points (86) and fourth in assists (60) in 2021-22 … Signed a three-year entry-level contract by Detroit on March 16, 2022 … Represented Team USA at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in 2020 and picked up three points (1-2—3) in four games … Drafted 55th overall by the Red Wings in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft … Made USHL debut on Jan. 15, 2021 … Made WHL debut Sept. 22, 2018 against Seattle.

#90 Riley Sawchuk | 5-11, 181 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Notched three goals in 23 games with the Griffins during rookie campaign…Made pro debut on Feb. 24 against the Chicago Wolves…Scored first pro goal on March 3 against the Iowa Wild…Collected 49 points (20-29—49) in 27 games with Mount Royal University…Paced USports in points and assists…Named to the USports All-Canadian First Team, USports West First All-Star Team and was dubbed the USports West MVP.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … First year pro … Made pro debut with the Griffins on Feb. 24, 2023 against the Chicago Wolves … Scored first pro goal on March 3, 2023 versus the Iowa Wild … Finished rookie pro campaign with three goals in 23 appearances … Named to the 2023 USports All-Canadian First Team, the USports West First All-Star Team and was dubbed the USports West MVP when he totaled 49 points (20-29—49) in 27 games with Mount Royal University in 2022-23 … In 2022-23, paced USports with 49 points and 29 assists … In 2021-22, named to the USports West All-Rookie Team, USports West First All-Star Team, USports All-Canadian Second Team, USports All-Rookie Team and garnered the University of Alberta Hockey Alumni Trophy as the most outstanding freshman in the USports West … Ranked first among USports players in assists with 23 during the 2021-22 campaign … Amassed 87 points (35-52—87) in 47 career USports contests from 2021-23 … Named a WHL East Second All-Star Team member in 2019-20 when he registered 76 points (25-51—76) in 64 games with the Edmonton Oil Kings … Throughout five WHL seasons, tallied 160 points (62-98—160) and 101 penalty minutes in 259 games between Tri-City (2016-19) and Edmonton (2019-20) … Paced all SAAHL U15 skaters with 42 goals in 30 games with Prince Albert Raiders U15 AA during the 2013-14 season.

#92 Marco Kasper | 6-1, 195 lbs.

Drafted: 1st round, 8th overall, in 2022 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Accumulated 23 points (8-15—23), 72 penalty minutes and a plus-seven rating in 52 games with Rogle BK in the SHL (Sweden)…Added three helpers in nine postseason games with Rogle BK…Made NHL debut on April 2 at the Toronto Maple Leafs and finished the NHL campaign with an even plus-minus rating in the only game played.

Career Highlights: First season as a Griffin … Third year pro … Made NHL debut on April 2, 2023 at the Toronto Maple Leafs … Selected with the eighth overall pick by Detroit in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft … Signed first NHL contract with Detroit on July 13, 2022 … Won the 2021-22 Champions Hockey League title with Rogle BK (SHL) … Totaled 23 points (8-15—23) in first full rookie SHL season with Rogle BK during the 2022-23 campaign … Signed first senior pro contract with Rogle BK on Sept. 15, 2021 … In 2021-22, showed the most points by a U18 junior player in the SHL with 11 (7-4—11) in 46 games … Finished in second place in the SHL during the 2020-21 campaign with Rogle BK … Competed in the 2022 World Championship with Team Austria, compiling two assists in seven appearances … Suited up in the 2021 World Junior Championship with Austria and registered one assist in four games … Made SHL debut with Rogle BK on Jan. 21, 2021 at Djurgardens IF … Scored first SHL point with an assist on Jan. 28 at Brynas IF … Tallied first SHL goal on Sept. 16, 2021 at Leksands IF … Paced the EBJL with 63 assists during the 2018-19 season with EC-KAC U18.

#93 Amadeus Lombardi | 5-11, 175 lbs.

Drafted: 4th round, 113th overall, in 2022 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Finished AHL season with one assist in two games with the Griffins…Made pro debut on April 14 against the Rockford IceHogs, recording an assist in the process…Became the 22nd player to make Griffins debut the season after he was drafted…Posted a career-high 102 points (45-57—102) and a plus-23 rating in 67 regular-season games for the Flint Firebirds (OHL)…First player in Flint Firebirds history to record 100-plus points in a season…Named to OHL Second All-Star Team.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … First year pro … Made pro debut with the Griffins on April 14, 2023 against the Rockford IceHogs, recording an assist in the process … Posted a junior career-high 102 points (45-57—102) and a plus-23 rating in 67 games during the 2022-23 campaign with the Flint Firebirds of the OHL … In 2022-23, became the first player in Flint Firebirds history to record 100-plus points in a season … Named to the 2023 OHL Second All-Star Team … Selected with the 113th overall pick by the Red Wings in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft … Signed first pro contract with Detroit on Dec. 23, 2022 … Throughout three seasons in the OHL, amassed 161 points (63-98—161) in 134 appearances.

DEFENSEMEN

#3 Jared McIsaac | 6-1, 197 lbs.

Drafted: 2nd round, 36th overall, in 2018 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Showed 22 points (3-19—22) and 30 penalty minutes in 61 games during third season with the Griffins...Nineteen assists tied a career high…Became just third Griffins defenseman to score two overtime goals in a season, which also tied for first among league defensemen last year.

Career Highlights: Fourth season as a Griffin … Fourth year pro … Tied a career-best 19 assists in 61 games during the 2022-23 season … In 2022-23, became just the third Griffins defenseman to score two overtime goals in a season, joining Filip Hronek (2018-19) and Bryan Helmer (2005-06) … Posted career-high numbers in games played (70), goals (5), assists (19), points (24) and penalty minutes (34) during the 2021-22 AHL season … Ranked among rookie defensemen AHL leaders in points (T9th), assists (T9th), and goals (T12th) … Scored first pro goal on Nov. 26 against Chicago … Made his North American and AHL debut with the Griffins on April 20, 2021 against Cleveland … Logged first AHL point on an assist in Rockford on May 1, 2021 … Won a gold medal with Team Canada at the U20 World Junior Championship in 2020 … QMJHL Second All-Star Team selection in 2018-19 … Hlinka Memorial Gold Medal winner with Canada in 2018 … Named the QMJHL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2016-17 and earned a spot on the QMJHL All-Rookie Team … Achieved the NSMMHL Rookie Defenseman Award in 2014-15 … Named to the NSMBHL Rookie All-Star Team in 2013-14.

#4 Antti Tuomisto | 6-5, 210 lbs.

Drafted: 2nd round, 35th overall, in 2019 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Finished rookie season with TPS (Liiga/Finland) with 20 points (5-15—20), 20 penalty minutes and a minus-six rating in 60 regular-season games, adding two assists in three playoff contests…Made pro debut on Sept. 13 at Tappara…Scored first pro point and goal during a two-point outing on Sept. 16 against Assat.

Career Highlights: First season as a Griffin … Second year pro … Signed to first NHL contract by the Detroit Red Wings on March 19, 2023 … Made pro debut with TPS in the Liiga (Finland) on Sept. 13, 2022 at Tappara … Scored first pro point and goal during a two-point outing on Sept. 16, 2022 against Assat (Liiga/Finland) … Finished rookie 2022-23 season with TPS with 20 points (5-15—20), 20 penalty minutes and a minus-six rating in 60 regular-season games, adding two assists in three playoff contests … Signed first pro contract with TPS on May 23, 2022 … NCAA National Champion with the University of Denver during the 2021-22 season … 2021-22 NCHC regular-season champion with the Denver Pioneers, contributing with nine points (1-8—9) and a plus-20 rating in 35 games … Made collegiate debut on Dec. 2, 2020 against the University of Minnesota-Duluth … First college point came with an assist on Dec. 8, 2020 versus the University of North Dakota … Scored first collegiate goal against the University of Nebraska-Omaha on Jan. 23, 2021 … Concluded NCAA career with 20 points (3-17—20), 44 penalty minutes and a plus-18 rating in 59 games across two seasons … Skated for Team Finland at the 2019 World Junior Challenge, collecting two assists and 29 penalty minutes in five appearances … In 2019-20, named the U20 SM-Liiga Best Defenseman and Best Player, and a U20 SM-Liiga First All-Star Team member after showing 49 points (15-34—49) and a plus-18 rating in 48 contests … Paced the 2019-20 U20 SM-Liiga’s defensemen with 49 points … Named to the 2018-19 U20 SM-Liiga Second All-Star Team after posting 35 points (9-26—35) in 45 outings … Suited up for five games with Finland at the 2018 U17 World Hockey Challenge.

#5 Eemil Viro | 6-1, 188 lbs.

Drafted: 3rd, 70th overall, in 2020 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Finished AHL season with eight points (1-7—8) and 14 penalty minutes in 48 games with the Griffins…Made North America and AHL debut on Oct. 14 against San Diego…Scored first AHL goal and point on Oct. 30 at Texas…Enjoyed three points (0-3—3) in five regular-season games with the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye…Added two points (1-1—2) in 13 postseason games, reaching the ECHL Western Conference Finals…Made ECHL debut on Dec. 2 at Cincinnati.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Fifth year pro … Made North America and AHL debut with the Griffins on Oct. 14, 2022 against San Diego … Scored first AHL goal and point on Oct. 30, 2022 at Texas … Made ECHL debut with the Toledo Walleye on Dec. 2, 2022 at Cincinnati … Finished rookie AHL campaign with eight points (1-7—8) and 14 penalty minutes in 48 games … Reached the 2023 ECHL Western Conference Finals with Toledo and finished the Kelly Cup Playoffs with two points (1-1—2) and four penalty minutes in 13 outings … Captured a silver medal with Finland at the 2022 World Junior Championship, posting one assist and a plus-one rating in seven contests … Won back-to-back Liiga silver medals with TPS from 2020-22 … Represented Team Finland at the 2021 World Junior Championship … Registered career-high numbers in games played (53), goals (4), assists (10) and points (14) in 2020-21 with TPS in the Liiga … Made pro debut on during the 2019-20 season with TPS in the Liiga, Finland’s top hockey league … Scored first pro goal on Nov. 27, 2020 at JYP … Won a silver medal with Team Finland at the 2018-19 World Hockey Championship … Won a bronze medal with Finland at the 2018-19 European Youth Olympic Winter Festival.

#22 William Wallinder | 6-4, 204 lbs.

Drafted: 2nd round, 32nd overall, in 2020 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Competed in one game with the Griffins, making North America and AHL debut on April 2 at the Rockford IceHogs…Registered 26 points (7-19—26), 10 penalty minutes and a plus-three rating in 50 regular-season games during second season with Rogle BK in the SHL (Sweden)…Added three points (1-2—3) in nine playoff appearances…Paced all Champions Hockey League defensemen with seven assists in nine contests (1-7—8).

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Fourth year pro … Made AHL and North America debut with the Griffins on April 2, 2023 at the Rockford IceHogs … Signed first NHL contract on March 27, 2023, a three-year entry-level deal with the Red Wings … Paced all defensemen in the Champions Hockey League with seven assists in 2022-23 … 2022 Champions Hockey League champion with Rogle BK (SHL) … Named the 2022 Swedish Junior Hockey Player of the Year … Claimed a bronze medal for Team Sweden at the 2022 World Junior Championship … Scored first pro goal on Jan. 31, 2021 against Sodertalje SK (HockeyAllsvenskan/Sweden) … Made SHL debut on Sept. 16, 2021 with Rogle BK … Recorded first SHL point with an assist on Sept. 25, 2021 at Vaxjo (SHL) … Scored first SHL goal on Oct. 21, 2021 at Skelleftea (SHL) … Ranked first among SHL junior players with 19 points (4-15—19) during the 2021-22 season … Drafted with the 32nd overall pick by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft … Made HockeyAllsvenskan (Sweden) debut on Nov. 3, 2019 against Sodertalje SK … Recorded first point in the HockeyAllsvenskan (Sweden) with an assist on Dec. 27, 2019 at Vasteras IK … Won a bronze medal at the 2019-20 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.

#23 Albert Johansson | 6-1, 185 lbs.

Drafted: 2nd round, 60th overall, in 2019 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Accumulated 15 points (5-10—15) and 38 penalty minutes in 53 games during rookie season with the Griffins…Made North America and AHL debut on Oct. 14 against San Diego…Registered first AHL goal on Dec. 7 against the Iowa Wild.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Fifth year pro … Made North America debut on Oct. 14, 2022 against the San Diego Gulls (AHL) … Registered first AHL point with an assist against the Toronto Marlies on Nov. 11, 2022 … Amassed first AHL goal on Dec. 7, 2022 against the Iowa Wild … Swedish Hockey League champion in 2021-22 with Farjestad BK, logging eight points (2-6—8) and eight penalty minutes in 19 playoff outings … Logged career-high totals in games played (52), points (25), assists (20) and penalty minutes (24) in the SHL in 2021-22 … Ranked first in points (25) and assists (20) among defensemen under the age of 25 in the SHL during the 2021-22 campaign … Signed to a three-year entry-level contract by Detroit on June 5, 2020 … Selected 60th overall by Detroit in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft … Made pro debut in the SHL on Nov. 1, 2018 … Won a gold medal for Team Sweden at the U18 World Junior Championship in 2019.

#25 Brogan Rafferty | 6-1, 198 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Showed career-high numbers in games played (72), goals (9), assists (42), points (51), plus-minus rating (+28), penalty minutes (42), shots (154) and game-winners (1) with the Coachella Valley Thunderbirds during the regular season…Added 11 points (2-9—11) in 26 postseason outings, reaching the Calder Cup Finals…Named to the AHL Second All-Star Team.

Career Highlights: First season as a Griffin … Fifth year pro … In 2022-23, posted career-high numbers in games played (72), goals (9), assists (42), points (51), plus-minus rating (+28), penalty minutes (42), shots (154) and game-winners (1) with the Coachella Valley Firebirds … Named to the 2023 AHL Second All-Star Team … Reached the 2023 Calder Cup Finals with Coachella Valley before being bested 4-3 by the Hershey Bears … Registered first NHL point with an assist on Jan. 21, 2021 against the Montreal Canadiens … In 2019-20 with the Utica Comets, named to the AHL All-Rookie Team and the AHL Second All-Star Team in addition to competing in the AHL All-Star Game … Tabbed AHL Rookie of the Month in December 2019 when he bagged 16 points (3-13—16) in 13 games … In 2019-20, ranked among the AHL rookie leaders in points (6th) and assists (1st) … Made AHL debut on Oct. 5, 2019 at the Binghamton Devils … Collected first pro point with an assist on Oct. 12, 2019 at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins … Scored first pro goal on Oct. 18, 2019 against the Charlotte Checkers … Made pro debut in the NHL with the Vancouver Canucks on April 6, 2019 at the Nashville Predators … Spent three seasons at Quinnipiac University from 2016-19, accumulating 65 points (10-55—65), 100 penalty minutes and a minus-six rating in 116 appearances … In 2016-17, became the first freshman to lead Quinnipiac in assists (22) since Matthew Peca did so in 2011-12, and was just the fifth freshman in Quinnipiac’s NCAA Div. I history to achieve the feat … Competed in one USHL campaign in 2015-16 with the Bloomington Thunder and notched 28 points (2-26—28) in 60 regular-season games … Spent three seasons in the NAHL from 2012-15 with the Coulee Region Chill, totaling 56 points (8-48—56) in 110 contests.

#40 Wyatt Newpower | 6-4, 210 lbs.

Drafted: Undrafted

2022-23 Stats: Notched seven points (2-5—7) in 59 games during second season with Griffins…Totaled a career-high 68 penalty minutes and 72 shots…Sixty-eight penalty minutes were the fewest to ever lead the Griffins.

Career Highlights: Third season as a Griffin … Fourth year pro … Notched a career-high 68 penalty minutes and 72 shots in 59 games during the 2022-23 season with the Griffins … Skated in first game as a Griffin on Oct. 15, 2021 against Rockford … Tied career-best numbers in goals (3), assists (10) and points (10) during the 2021-22 season … Set new career-highs in games played (55) and penalty minutes (54) in 2021-22 … Made 24 appearances for Cleveland during his rookie season in 2020-21, compiling 10 points (3-7—10) and a plus-10 rating … Skated in first AHL game on Feb. 12, 2021 against Rochester … Earned first AHL point, assist, and multi-point game on Feb. 22, 2021 at Rockford … Netted inaugural AHL goal on March 20, 2021 against Grand Rapids … Captained the University of Connecticut during his senior season in 2019-20 … Appeared in 114 collegiate games and tallied 47 points (11-36—47) … In 2019-20, named the Hockey East Best Defensive Defenseman and earned a spot on the Hockey East Second All-Star Team.

#44 Josiah Didier | 6-3, 220 lbs.

Drafted: 4th round, 97th overall, in 2011 by Montreal

2022-23 Stats: Served as captain for the Providence Bruins for the second straight season…Accumulated 13 points (4-9—13), 61 penalty minutes and a minus-four rating in 69 regular-season games…Notched career highs in games played (69) and goals (4)…Added two assists and two penalty minutes in four postseason outings.

Career Highlights: First season as a Griffin … Ninth year pro … Served as captain of the Providence Bruins (AHL) from 2021-23 … Notched career highs in games played (69) and goals (4) during the 2022-23 campaign with Providence … Totaled career-high numbers in assists (12), points (15), penalty minutes (79), shots (80) and plus-minus rating (+32) during the 2019-20 season with Providence … Paced the AHL with a plus-32 rating in 2019-20 … Spent four seasons with Providence from 2019-23, amassing 34 points (8-26—34) in 182 games … Became a Calder Cup champion with the Charlotte Checkers in 2019, showing four assists and a plus-12 rating in 19 outings … Made AHL and pro debut with the Hamilton Bulldogs on April 2, 2015 against the Chicago Wolves … Registered first pro point with an assist on April 14, 2015 at Oklahoma City (AHL) … Scored first AHL goal with the St. John’s IceCaps on Feb. 5, 2017 at the Hershey Bears … Signed first pro contract on June 8, 2015 with the St. John’s IceCaps … Alternate captain for the University of Denver during junior and senior seasons … Competed in four campaigns with the University of Denver from 2011-15, compiling 29 points (4-25—29), 203 penalty minutes and a plus-20 rating in 148 contests … Helped Denver win its first NCHC title during the 2013-14 season … Suited up for one junior season in the USHL with the Cedar Rapids Roughriders, totaling 21 points (8-13—21) and 81 penalty minutes in 58 regular-season games in 2010-11 … Drafted with the 97th overall pick by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft … Captured U16 AAA Hockey Club national championship as a member of the Colorado Thunderbirds in 2010.

#77 Simon Edvinsson | 6-6, 215 lbs.

Drafted: 1st round, 6th overall, in 2021 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Ranked among the league’s rookie defensemen leaders in goals (5, T11th), assists (22, T6th), points (27, T8th) and penalty minutes (52, T10th)…Made North America and AHL debut on Oct. 14 against San Diego and later scored first AHL goal on Oct. 15 versus San Diego…Suited up in nine games with the Detroit Red Wings, totaling two goals and 12 penalty minutes…Made NHL debut on March 18 against the Colorado Avalanche…Scored first NHL goal on March 23 against St. Louis.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Fourth year pro … Made NHL debut with Detroit on March 18, 2023 against the Colorado Avalanche … Scored first NHL goal on March 23, 2023 against the St. Louis Blues … Made North America and AHL debut on Oct. 14, 2022 against the San Diego Gulls, collecting an assist in the process … Scored first AHL goal on Oct. 15, 2022 against the San Diego Gulls … Notched 27 points (5-22—27) in 52 games during rookie AHL season in 2022-23 … Captured a bronze medal at the 2022 World Junior Championship, recording two points (1-1--2) and a plus-two rating in six games … Named best junior player in the Swedish Hockey League by Elite Prospects for the 2021-22 season … Finished third in the Rookie of the Year voting in the SHL in 2021-22 … Drafted with the sixth overall pick by Detroit in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft … Logged 17 assists in 2021-22 for Frolunda (SHL), which was the most helpers by a junior in the league … Won a bronze medal with Team Sweden at the U18 World Junior Championship in 2021 … Appeared for his home country at seven different tournaments … Earned a J18 SM Gold Medal and a U16 SM Gold Medal with Frolunda HC in 2018-19 … Led the U16 SM defensemen with 11 assists in 2018-19 … Won the TV-Pucken tournament in 2018-19 with Goteborg and totaled nine points (2-7—9) in six outings … Seven assists in the TV-Pucken in 2018-19 were the most by a defensemen.

GOALTENDERS

#33 Sebastian Cossa | 6-7, 215 lbs.

Drafted: 1st round, 15th overall, in 2021 by Detroit

2022-23 Stats: Posted a 26-16-1 record to go along with a 2.56 GAA and a 0.913 save percentage in 46 regular-season games with the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye…Ranked among the ECHL goaltending leaders in GAA (T11th), wins (T3rd), shutouts (4, T2nd), time on ice (2,667, 3rd) and saves (1,190, 3rd)…Added a 5-2 mark, a 2.32 GAA and a 0.917 save percentage in seven postseason contests with Toledo…Suited up for three games with the Griffins, totaling a 1-1-0 record, a 5.57 GAA and a 0.783 save percentage…Made pro debut with Grand Rapids on Oct. 19 against the Milwaukee Admirals, making 21 saves in a 3-2 victory.

Career Highlights: Second season as a Griffin … Second year pro … Posted a 26-16-1 record to go along with a 2.56 GAA and a 0.913 save percentage in 46 regular-season games during rookie 2022-23 season with the Toledo Walleye (ECHL) … In 2022-23, ranked among the ECHL goaltending leaders in GAA (T11th), wins (T3rd), shutouts (4, T2nd), time on ice (2,667, 3rd) and saves (1,190, 3rd) … Made pro debut with the Griffins on Oct. 19, 2022 against the Milwaukee Admirals, making 21 saves in a 3-2 victory … Captured a gold medal with Canada at the 2022 World Junior Championship, showing a 1-0-0 record with a 2.00 GAA and a 0.917 SV% … Posted a 16-3-0 record in the 2021-22 WHL playoffs along with a 1.93 goals against average, a 0.919 save percentage and five shutouts en route to a WHL Championship … Named to the 2021-22 WHL Central First All-Star Team … Represented Team Canada at the 2022 World Junior Championship … Drafted 15th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft … Led the WHL with a 1.57 goals against average in 2020-21 as well as the best save percentage at 0.941 … Totaled an eye-popping 17-1-1 record in 2020-21 with Edmonton in the WHL to go along with a league-leading four shutouts … Competed for Canada White U17 at the World Hockey Championship in 2019 … Paced the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League in 2016-17 with a 1.80 goals against average and a 0.934 save percentage … Named the AMBHL Most Valuable Player and Top Goaltender in 2016-17 when he helped lead Fort Saskatchewan to a league title.

#35 Michael Hutchinson | 6-3, 200 lbs.

Drafted: 3rd round, 77th overall, in 2008 by Boston

2022-23 Stats: Suited up for 16 games with the Columbus Blue Jackets and showed a 2-6-3 record with a 4.29 GAA and a 0.877 save percentage … Also competed in seven contests with the AHL’s Henderson Silver Knights, compiling a 1-5-1 mark with a 2.74 GAA and a 0.897 save percentage … Represented Team Canada at the Spengler Cup, logging a 0-2-0 record with a 2.56 GAA and a 0.896 save percentage.

Career Highlights: First season as a Griffin … 14^th year pro … Represented Team Canada at the 2022-23 Spengler Cup, logging a 0-2-0 record with a 2.56 GAA and a 0.896 save percentage … Showed a 1.01 GAA in two games during the 2020-21 campaign with the Toronto Marlies (AHL) … Made Stanley Cup Playoff debut with the Colorado Avalanche during the 2019-20 campaign, showing a 2-1 mark to go along with a 2.75 GAA and a 0.910 save percentage in four outings … Named to the AHL Second All-Star Team during the 2017-18 season with the Manitoba Moose when he ranked among the goaltending leaders in save percentage (0.935, 2^nd) and GAA (2.08, 3^rd) … While playing in at least 20 games, his 2.08 GAA in 2017-18 set a career high … Competed in the 2017-18 AHL All-Star Game … Had a NHL career-best season in 2014-15 with Winnipeg when he showed career-high numbers in GAA (2.38), shutouts (2), games played (38) and wins (21) … Played exclusively in the NHL from 2014-17 with the Winnipeg Jets … Posted three shut outs during the 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons, which all tied a career high … During the 2013-14 season, named ECHL Goaltender of the Week twice (Nov. 17, Jan. 5) and ECHL Goaltender of the Month in November … Made NHL debut on April 7, 2014 with Winnipeg against Minnesota, earning 16 saves in a 1-0 defeat … Recorded first NHL win on April 10, 2014 against Boston, collecting 32 saves in a 2-1 shootout victory … Reached the Calder Cup Finals in 2014 with the St. John’s IceCaps, totaling a league-best 1.95 GAA, a 0.938 save percentage and a 12-9 record in 21 games … Awared the Jack A. Butterfield Trophy as the AHL’s Playoff MVP in 2014 … Registered first NHL shutout on Nov. 2, 2014 at Chicago with 33 saves in a 1-0 win … In 2013-14 AHL season, ranked 13^th with a 0.923 save percentage and tied for 11^th with a 2.30 GAA … Suited up for a AHL career-high 30 games with the Providence Bruins in 2012-13 … In 2011-12 with Providence (AHL), tied for 5^th with a 0.927 save percentage in 29 games … Made AHL and pro debut on Oct. 8, 2010 with Providence against Springfield … Collected first AHL and pro win on Oct. 9, 2010 at Springfield in 6-5 victory with 31 saves … First AHL shutout came on Feb. 25, 2011 at Abbotsford, making 30 saves in a 4-0 victory … From 2006-10 competed in the OHL and compiled a 67-50-7 record, a 2.87 GAA, a 0.915 save percentage and nine shutouts throughout 130 regular-season contests … Named the CHL Goaltender of the Week on Dec. 16, 2008 and on April 1, 2008.