Around The AHL: Two surgeries later, Jared McIsaac finally arrives in Grand Rapids

Simply being back on the ice this season counts as a major victory for Grand Rapids Griffins defenceman Jared McIsaac.

The 21-year-old, a second-round pick by the parent Detroit Red Wings in 2018, made his AHL debut this past Tuesday night against the visiting Cleveland Monsters to complete an arduous chapter in his young pro career that already has including two reconstructive shoulder surgeries. His entry into the Grand Rapids lineup marked his first pro game since October 7, 2020.

“I just wanted to get my feet wet and get a feel for it,” McIsaac said after his Griffins debut, a 5-3 come-from-behind win. “I knew I wasn't going to be perfect out there. Just [tried] to try to keep the game simple as much as possible and defend well, play tight defensively, quick plays. The guys did a good job giving me a lot of options, going back for pucks, and talking to me.”