1. RARE MICHIGAN LOSS: The Griffins scored twice in the second period at even strength and added two power play markers and an empty-net goal in the third period to beat the Heat 5-1. The game that was much closer, in many respects, than the scoreboard would indicate, but that won’t be reflected in the standings. The Griffins’ home win over the Heat is the first for Detroit’s affiliate since October of 2009, and hands the Heat their second straight loss to open this three-game pre-holiday stretch on the road. Riley Sheahan, Francis Pare, Joakim Andersson, Gustav Nyquist and Landon Ferraro all turned in two-point nights for the home team.
2. BRUST HOOKED: Barry Brust was removed from the net after 40 minutes, which was just the second time this season that the Heat’s starting goalie didn’t finish the game. For Brust the game is his second straight regulation loss, but he’s still been very good, as he hasn’t had a goal in support through five periods of play on this road trip. Brust was out of his net to make plays on both of the Griffins goals in the first 40 minutes. At the other end of the rink, rookie Petr Mrazek was sharp, and nearly posted a shutout, but…
3. TUZZOLINO BINGO: In just his second game since call up from the Utah Grizzlies (ECHL), Heat defender Nick Tuzzolino popped his first goal of the season, breaking up Petr Mrazek’s shutout bid with less than three-and-a-half minutes remaining in the contest. Tuzzolino who was injured in training camp has been a nice addition to a blue-line that hasn’t seen Steve McCarthy yet this road-trip as he recovers from a minor injury.
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