Griffins Flashback: April 6

Take a look back at this date in Griffins history.

April 6, 2016
Robbie Russo is named to the AHL’s All-Rookie Team.

April 6, 2012
Chris Minard is named the winner of the Fred T. Hunt Memorial Award as the AHL player who best exemplifies the qualities of sportsmanship, determination and dedication to hockey. After missing season’s first 36 games while dealing with the continuing after-effects of a concussion suffered during the 2009-10 season, he rebounded to tally 21 goals and 32 points in just 39 games.

April 6, 2007
Detroit Red Wings legend and former captain Steve Yzerman is honored prior to the game against Toronto. After thunderous applause from a sold-out Van Andel Arena, Yzerman acknowledges the crowd by giving a brief speech and also takes part in a ceremonial puck drop. The game is a great one for the Red Wings’ new vice president to watch, as Jimmy Howard ties a franchise record with his sixth shutout of the season, 4-0 over the Marlies. (Photos)

April 6, 2006
Donald MacLean is named to the AHL’s First All-Star Team while two of his teammates, Bryan Helmer and Jiri Hudler, earn a place on the Second Team.

April 6, 2003
Marc Lamothe and Joey MacDonald become the second consecutive set of Griffins goalies to receive the AHL’s Harry “Hap” Holmes Memorial Award, presented annually to the goaltender(s) appearing in at least 25 games for the team that allows the fewest goals during the regular season. Grand Rapids gave up just 177 goals, one more than the league record.

April 6, 2002
With a 3-2 victory at Chicago, the Griffins win the AHL's inaugural Bud Poile Trophy as 2001-02 West Division champions and secure the Western Conference's number-two seed in the 2002 AHL Calder Cup playoffs.

April 6, 2001
The Griffins claim the IHL’s final Huber Trophy as regular season champions with a 2-1 win at Utah.