The Capitals forward has posted 27 points to this point in his first season with Madison
The Madison Capitals are locked in a tight playoff race with a record of 23-14-0-3, currently finding themselves fifth in the United States Hockey League’s Eastern Conference. The race for playoff seeding is on with 22 games to play.
Through 30 games played, Capitals forward Gustavs Griva is making his mark in what is the 18-year-old’s first season in the USHL. Griva has recorded 10 goals and 17 assists, tied for third most points amongst all Capital players. After coming over from Germany, year one in North America has been a great experience for Griva.
“I just wanted to make the next step, and when Madison drafted me, and I listened to what they had to say, it sounded like a perfect spot,” Griva said. “So far, it’s been the right setup, the speed, the physicality has been really good. It’s been a great decision, and I’m so happy to be here.”
Most nights when the Capitals are playing, there are two players on the ice with the last name Griva. Gustavs' twin brother, Rihards, is also in his first season with Madison, as the two came over from Germany together prior to the 2025-26 season.
“It’s been really nice coming to a new country together, with it being our first time away from home, it’s made the transition easier,” G. Griva said. “Being here, playing together and seeing each other get better has been a lot of fun.”
Griva’s first season has brought great success for the Capitals forward. Amongst all skaters on the Capitals who have played in at least 30 games, Griva leads the team with 0.90 points-per-game. The 17 assists are also tied with defenseman Ronan Buckberger for the most on the team.
“My teammates and coaching staff have really helped me make the transition from Germany to the USA,” Griva said. “Just doing video every week and leaning on my teammates with all of the new things I had to learn.”
In December, Griva was selected to play for Germany at the World Junior Championships in Minnesota. Griva skated in three games for the German team. Germany went 0-4 in the group stage but was able to defeat Denmark 8-4 in the relegation game to remain in the top group for next year’s tournament in Edmonton.
“It was a really big honor playing for my country and a really cool experience,” Griva said. “It was really important to get that win, just to make sure that we will be in the top division for next year. Seven of us can go back next year, so it is important to use the experience we got to help us make the quarterfinals at the next tournament.”
With 22 games remaining on the Capitals’ schedule, the focus for Griva is on continuing to play good hockey so that the team is prepared for when the puck drops for playoff hockey.
“We’re a team that can win a lot of games when we are dialled in and focused. We try to play a hard game and be a team that’s not fun to play against,” Griva said. “If we continue to do that, I think we can make the playoffs and go on a run.”
While remaining focused on this season, Griva wants to continue to develop his play so that when the time comes to take the next step in his career, Griva will be ready.
“I am getting more interested in attending a college and getting the experience of playing at the collegiate level,” Griva said. “I think the next step in my career would be to hopefully make that jump.”
All stats prior to Thursday night's game