Exciting Matchup Ahead for the Grand Rapids Griffins
The Grand Rapids Griffins will kick off a brief homestand on Wednesday with an exciting showdown against the Toronto Marlies, followed by another game on Friday. This matchup is particularly noteworthy as it marks the return of NHL goaltender Joseph Woll, who is temporarily joining the Marlies on a conditioning loan from the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Griffins’ Strong Start and Recent Challenges
The Griffins have started their season on a high note, effortlessly accumulating eight consecutive victories before recently facing a tough loss in a shootout against the Chicago Wolves.
Woll’s Return and Its Significance
In the context of the NHL, Woll’s comeback comes at a crucial juncture for the Maple Leafs, who have been struggling defensively, having conceded 65 goals—tying them with the Nashville Predators for the most goals allowed in the league. Most of the burden has been placed on goalie Anthony Stolarz, who has played in 12 out of the Leafs’ 15 games this season, achieving a record of 6-5-1 paired with a 3.35 goals-against average and an .889 save percentage. This inconsistency from the goaltending duo has underscored the importance of Woll’s rehabilitation with the Marlies; fans from both levels of play will be watching his performance with keen interest.
Woll made his season debut last Saturday against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, turning away 21 of 24 shots in a narrow 3-2 defeat. As he prepares to take the ice again on Wednesday, the anticipation builds among Maple Leafs supporters who hope this stint is a prelude to his return to the NHL.
Standout Players for the Griffins
On the Griffins’ side, forward John Leonard is proving to be a standout player this season. He has netted nine goals and added three assists, accumulating 12 points across his first eight games. His scoring rate stands at an impressive 1.50 points per game, which is the second-highest in the AHL. Leonard is currently riding an active eight-game point streak that includes three games with multiple goals scored. Additionally, playmaker Amadeus Lombardi has also been pivotal for the Griffins, with helpers in seven out of nine games and an ongoing five-game assist streak.
Challenges Ahead for the Griffins
As the Griffins prepare to face Woll, they’ll be challenged in their own right as their regular goalies are out with injuries. Instead, they will rely on ECHL call-ups Carter Gylander and the newly signed Luke Pavicich to fill the void in net. This matchup promises to be fierce and filled with goal-scoring opportunities as the Griffins aim to capitalize on this moment against an NHL-caliber opponent.
Game Details
The game is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. EST at Van Andel Arena, with fans able to catch all the action live either on WOOD 106.9 FM and 1300 AM or through AHLTV via FloHockey.
