4 Observations as Grand Rapids Griffins prepare for 2024 Calder Cup playoffs

Sebastian Cossa secured his second shutout of his AHL career in a 3–0 win against the Rockford IceHogs on Friday. Photo by Nicolas Carrillo

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids Griffins still have seven more regular season games until the Calder Cup playoffs begin, and with a playoff berth already secured, you couldn’t fault them if they wanted to let off the gas a bit in preparation for a playoff run.

But that’s not this team’s mindset.

Sebastian Cossa made 24 saves, securing his second shutout of the season, as the Griffins topped the Rockford IceHogs 3–0 on Friday at Van Andel Arena.

The Griffins (34–19–8–4, 80 points) currently sit in second place in the Central Division, six points behind the Milwaukee Admirals, but the Admirals have a game in hand.

Although first place in the division remains a possibility, albeit with slim odds, the Griffins most likely will face these same IceHogs in the Division Finals of the Calder Cup playoffs.

AHL standings as of April 6.

As they enter the final stretch of their regular season, here are four observations I had during their win Friday night.

Griffins look ready for playoffs