The Detroit Red Wings' future is looking bright—and it's all about winning.
On Friday night, the Grand Rapids Griffins, Detroit's top AHL affiliate, proved once again that they know how to get the job done. They defeated the Manitoba Moose 5-2 in Game 4 of their Central Division semifinal series, clinching the best-of-five matchup 3-1 and advancing in the Calder Cup playoffs. It's a statement win that speaks volumes about the culture being built within the organization.
But what makes this Griffins team special isn't just their talent—it's their pedigree. While none of them have lifted the Calder Cup yet, many have tasted championship glory at other levels. And that experience is proving invaluable.
"It's so fun to win," said Griffins defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka. "I've been on a winning team before and know it's hard." Sandin-Pellikka knows exactly what he's talking about: he and teammate Michael Brandsegg-Nygard were both part of Skelleftea's Swedish Hockey League championship squad in 2023-24. They're among 10 Grand Rapids players who have won a title at the junior level or higher.
That championship DNA is something head coach Dan Watson is leaning on heavily. "Oh, big value, big value," Watson said. "If you've won anywhere, you can bring something to the table—experience on the ice, off the ice, in the locker room, leadership-wise."
The Griffins' locker room is stacked with winners. Forward Austin Watson owns two Memorial Cup titles (Windsor in 2009, London in 2012). Defenseman Shai Buium has two NCAA championships from his time at Denver (2022 and 2024). Defenseman Antti Tuomisto and winger Carter Mazur were also key contributors to Denver's 2022 title run. Even goalie Michal Postava has championship experience from his time with Kometa.
For hockey players, living in the moment is the norm. But when that moment comes with a history of knowing how to close out series and lift trophies, it's a recipe for success. The Red Wings' prospects aren't just learning the game—they're learning how to win. And that's the kind of foundation every championship team is built on.