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Grand Rapids. Outshot Rockford 28-25 but Cossa surrendered 5 goals as the Griffins fell 5-1 in game 2 of their first round in the AHL post season. While there were chances and good puck movement, there were several odd man rushes against after plays in the offensive zone were broken up.
Coming away from the NHL games, the AHL is a step slower. Players have more time. It almost feels like a completely different game. It will be interesting to see how this group looks as they take the ice for game 3. The physicality and atmosphere is a great experience for developing prospects. The fans showed up en masse (Grand Rapids is a fantastic atmosphere) and those quick adjustments are a valuable part of the experience.
Looking back up to the NHL, the first round will come to a close soon and I wanted to look at some of the post season salary numbers.
Cap Friendly shows that on an 83 million dollar cap, 4 teams are carrying 90 million or more with 97 million (Toronto), Tampa Bay (93 million), Vegas (92 million) and Colorado (90 million). Next year’s cap is still being set at 87 million but isn’t carved in stone yet.
3 of those 4 teams are recent cup champs, though the emphasis in the league is to talk about Vegas almost every post season team is using the lifted cap restriction. There will continue to be debate about circumvention but this isn’t a new issue. The league is focused on ratings for the post season. The cap, LTIR usage etc won’t come to the forefront unless it is deemed as hurting the league as a whole. That’s when a team gets relocated or slapped with sanctions.
Finally, you can click here for a list of the upcoming UFA class. The return of the salary cap and the need to be compliant is going to have an effect on a few teams. Hedman and Stamkos both need new deals but it feels fair to say they are invested in making it work with the home team. The trade market may still yield more surprises as teams try to keep talent in the fold. Former Red Wing Tyler Bertuzzi will be an interesting watch. Utah may be doing a lot of interviews as the franchise is overhauled this summer. ‘Bert didn’t have the year he’d hoped for, and may have to do a short term deal at or below the 5m mark depending on what is available.
Final thoughts on the system. Last night’s game was a reminder that there just isn’t a substitute for time in the NHL. Those positions are highly coveted and as hard as it is to get the opportunity, it’s harder to keep it. Fans grow impatient, organizations have to choose a core and make players expendable. A long season of hockey can lead to an unceremonious exit that quickly opens up coaching positions and can lead players to part ways in search of greener pastures. (Or greener contracts).
Very soon we’ll know the draft order and begin to look at who could be available for Detroit. In the Yzerman era, Seider has still looked to be the most ready at the youngest age. Raymond has forced his way into a different type of discussion with last year’s performance, and Sandin Pellikka seems to be getting a good deal of focus as a top prospect for the organization. It will be interesting to see where Yzerman adds and how many teams make offers for 2nd or 3rd round picks as that capitol has been spent. Deals are on the way as we head to the bingo hall.
Detroit Red Wings Blogger • 
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