from Peter J. Wallner of Mlive,

The Detroit Red Wings organization put the development of its NHL team as top priority this season, of course. But construction of the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins for a long postseason run may have been No. 2.

It didn’t happen....

It was a tough loss on a couple levels for the Griffins.

After taking a 2-1 series lead following a memorable Game 3 that featured 144 penalty minutes, the Griffins failed to clinch at home on Wednesday and again Sunday in Chicago.

More so, it was an unexpected end for a team that reloaded with a fresh group of high-profile AHL veterans. The likes of Chris Terry (2017-18 AHL scoring leader), Carter Camper (12th in scoring) and Wade Megan along with defenseman Jake Chelios were brought in to ultimately lead a deep playoff run, provide leadership and a valuable postseason experience for the Red Wings’ prized prospects.

read on

Also, a KK Donation Drive kicked off today.