Griffins pull off a miraculous win; Is Karlsson the NHL’s best D-man?

The Grand Rapids Griffins pulled off hockey’s version of a Christmas miracle when they overcame a four-goal deficit to beat the Chicago Wolves 8-7 in overtime on Thursday night.

These are the second most goals the Griffins have given up and still win the game. In 2010, the Griffins beat the Wolves 10-8.

We told readers two days ago that Christmas came early for the Griffins when Austin Czarnik was reinstated and the Red Wings traded Danny O’Regan. Both players contributed four points to the Griffins. O’Regan had two goals and two assists. Czarnik scored the winner 16 seconds into OT. Steven Kampfer, recently returned to Grand Rapids, also had four assists.

Attacking heroes were needed. That was because 2021 first-round pick Sebastian Cossa had a night to forget. Cossa gave up six goals from 13 shots in the first period. Wolves took a 6-2 lead. Jussi Olkinuora replaced Cossa.

WARNIK CALLS THE GAME pic.twitter.com/Xycvee64sC

– Grand Rapids Griffins (@griffinshockey) December 23, 2022

Red Wings in case you forgot

How the Howe kids compare their famous father Gordie to Alex Ovechkin.

The Red Wings are wondering if Michael Rasmussen might be more valuable playing on the wing than at center.

Bob Duff writes about the death of former Red Wings player Don McKenney.

Red Wings next game

The Red Wings’ Friday game against the Ottawa Senators will be postponed. After the NHL holiday break, Detroit (14-11-7) will face the Penguins (19-9-5) in Pittsburgh next Wednesday.

Hockey Now Network

Boston: A review of Mitchell Miller’s failed contract has been completed. The Bruins need to make some changes. Boston Bruins.

Florida: Veteran beat writer George Richards explains why coach Paul Maurice may have kept Spencer Knight in the game Thursday night. Florida Panthers

New York: Islanders disappointed to blow the lead in loss to New York Rangers. New York Islanders

Philadelphia: The late Flyers didn’t save them against the talented Toronto Maple Leafs. Philadelphia Flyers.

Pittsburgh: Evgeni Malkin said the OT loss to the Carolina Hurricanes was his fault. PIttsburgh Penguins.

San Jose: Sheng Peng asks if Erik Karlsson is the best defenseman in the NHL again. He had his third four-point game of the season against the Minnesota Wild. San Jose Sharks.

Washington: Why did Capitals defenseman John Carlson earn the nickname Johnny Diamond? Washington Capitals