Hockeytown Rundown : Detroit Red Wings Pipe Line : Inside the Grand Rapids Griffins (feat. Elaine Shircliff)

The Detroit Red Wings pipeline is absolutely on fire, and it all starts in Grand Rapids. In this episode, we’re joined by Elaine Shircliff to go inside the historic start by the Grand Rapids Griffins, who have opened the season an unbelievable 23-1-0-1 through their first 25 games — the best start in AHL history.

We break down how the Griffins have become the gold standard in development, what’s driving their success, and why this season feels different. From John Leonard earning a call-up to Detroit, to the tough decision of Jonatan Berggren going on waivers and being claimed by the St. Louis Blues, we dive into the ripple effects across the organization. We also spotlight the leadership behind the scenes with head coach Dan Watson and GM Shawn Horcoff, and take a closer look at key prospects like Sebastian Cossa and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard as they continue to grow within the system.

🔥 In this episode:

✅ Griffins’ historic 23-1-0-1 start — best in AHL history
🚨 John Leonard called up to the Red Wings
🔁 Jonatan Berggren claimed off waivers by St. Louis
🏒 Dan Watson & Shawn Horcoff building a winning culture
🥅 Prospect updates on Cossa & Brandsegg-Nygard
📈 What Grand Rapids’ success means for Detroit’s future

Let us know in the comments: Is this the best the Red Wings’ pipeline has ever looked?

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🚨 Elaine's YouTube channel:    / @gracedbyrain  
Elaine's Twitter (X): https://x.com/imaraindancer
Elaine's website: https://www.gracedbyrain.com/