Grand Rapids — The hockey playoffs are alive and well in Michigan, just not where they usually are, at Joe Louis Arena.
Judging by the crowds outside Van Andel Arena, around all the trendy restaurants and hangouts in downtown Grand Rapids, the party has moved to the west side of the state.
And Griffins fans are loving it.
“I love hockey, and there’s no place I’d rather be than here,” said Dana Bueche, of Allendale, decked out in Griffins gear 90 minutes before the puck dropped Wednesday for Game 3 of the AHL Western Conference Finals against San Jose.