Red Wings Prospect Emmitt Finnie Gets Roster Spot Ahead of Season Opener
The Detroit Red Wings had a quieter offseason than many expected, staying out of major trades despite being linked to big names like Erik Karlsson and Evan Rodrigues. But one of the biggest surprises has come from within: three young prospects have earned spots on the opening night roster, and Emmitt Finnie has emerged as the standout.
Finnie Impresses Ahead of Final Cuts
As of Monday, October 6, the deadline for NHL teams to finalize their rosters for the 2025–26 season, signs pointed strongly to Finnie making the team. According to The Athletic’s Max Bultman, Finnie was skating on a top line in practice alongside Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond—a strong indicator of his status.
Head coach Todd McLellan has been vocal about his admiration for the 20-year-old forward. After the final preseason game against the Maple Leafs, McLellan praised all three rookies—Finnie, Axel Sandin-Pellikka, and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard—saying they’ve earned their place through consistent effort and growth.
On Finnie specifically, McLellan said:
“I’d heard about Emmitt and his game, but he’s really grown on me. The pace, the detail, the courage he shows going to the net—he’s not riding the brake. He’s full on the gas.”
Three Rookies Officially Make the Cut
Following final roster decisions, Finnie, Brandsegg-Nygard, and Sandin-Pellikka were all officially named to the Red Wings’ 23-man roster. The team placed Justin Holl and Erik Gustafsson on waivers, with only Holl being assigned to Grand Rapids after clearing.
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Brandsegg-Nygard (20), the 15th overall pick in 2024, had 11 points in 42 SHL games last season and notched 7 points, 13 shots, and 19 hits in preseason.
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Sandin-Pellikka (20), selected 17th overall in 2023, tallied 29 points in 46 SHL games and averaged nearly 21 minutes of ice time in preseason.
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Finnie (20), a seventh-round pick (201st overall) in 2023, recorded 84 points in 55 games for the Kamloops Blazers in the WHL last season. In preseason, he added 4 points, 12 shots, and 18 hits while averaging over 14 minutes of ice time.
Now Comes the Real Test
With preseason behind them, the young trio will now face full-strength NHL competition. It’s a big step forward for all three, but especially for Finnie, who’s quickly gone from long shot to top-line hopeful. Red Wings fans will be watching closely to see if these prospects can translate their early promise into lasting success in the NHL.
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