GRAND RAPIDS - Todd Nelson, who returned to a familiar location with a bar set absurdly high when he took over head coach of the Grand Rapids Griffins just shy of two years ago, got his payoff Tuesday as he hoisted the Calder Cup Trophy.
The 48-year-old Nelson was almost reluctant, as players chanted his name in taking turns raising the trophy during the celebration at Van Andel Arena following the title-clinching 4-3 win against the Syracuse Crunch.
But, he hoisted away, taking a small spin before happily passing it off and enjoying the moment of others.