Griffins Sign ECHL MVP Marcus Crawford

The Grand Rapids Griffins have signed defenseman Marcus Crawford to an AHL contract for the 2026-27 season, bringing in the reigning ECHL Most Valuable Player.

Crawford, 26, posted 86 points in 70 games with the Kansas City Mavericks last season, becoming the first defenseman in ECHL history to lead the league in scoring. His 14 goals tied for the league lead among blueliners, while his 72 assists ranked third all-time for a defenseman in a single ECHL season. He also led all defensemen with 39 power-play points and finished with a plus-49 rating.

The performance earned Crawford both the ECHL MVP and Defenseman of the Year awards. His assist total set a single-season franchise record for Kansas City, and he was named to the All-ECHL First Team.

Grand Rapids, entering its 25th season as Detroit's primary affiliate, opens the 2026-27 campaign on Oct. 2 at Cleveland before hosting Manitoba for its home opener on Oct. 9. The Griffins are coming off a season in which they missed the playoffs and will look to Crawford's offensive production from the back end to bolster a roster that has seen significant turnover this summer.

Crawford's ability to drive play and distribute under pressure made him a consistent threat in all situations for the Mavericks. He led ECHL defensemen in game-winning goals with five and recorded 186 shots on goal, fourth among blueliners.

The signing gives the Griffins an experienced offensive defenseman as they prepare for training camp under fourth-year head coach Dan Watson.