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Griffins Look to Wallinder to Lead Defensive Play

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William Wallinder, Red Wings prospect

The Grand Rapids Griffins have only scored seven goals in their first four games.  Yet, they find themselves off to an impressive 3-1 start.



The key has been stingy goaltending and good defensive work by Red Wings prospects, particularly  William Wallinder (32nd, 2020). With Simon Edvinsson and Albert Johansson now wearing Detroit gear, fellow Swede Wallinder has become the Grand Rapids defensive pillar.

“He’s got a great stick,” Grand Rapids coach Dan Watson said. “Skates extremely well. He’s learning the intensity now that it takes every single night to compete at that high level. That is one thing he is working on.”

Wallinder has a plus-2 plus-minus with one assist in the four games “Give him a ton of credit,” Watson said. “We’ve asked him to log some hard minutes. Obviously being responsible on the power play as well.”

The Red Wings undoubtedly expected this step-up, based on how his game improved late last season.

“It’s just development growth in his game,” Watson said. “He’s ready for it. We are going to make sure he’s prepared and can have some success.”

Meanwhile, Shai Buium, recovered from injury, was solid in his first two games for the Griffins. Grand Rapids won both of those games against Manitoba.

“He’s a smart player, ” Watson said. “He moves pucks, sees the ice extremely well… Makes plays under pressure. He has a winning pedigree. Coming from Denver. He knows what it takes. Good performance for his first two games.

Now, the Griffins would like to see their offense be more productive.  Red Wings prospects Nate Danielson, Cross Hanas, Elmer Soderblom and Jakub Rychlovsky are among the forwards who haven’t yet registered a point.