Detroit, Michigan, January 23, 2026
20-year-old rookie Emmitt Finnie is quickly establishing himself as a strong player for the Detroit Red Wings in his inaugural NHL season. With 19 points from 9 goals and 10 assists, his performance highlights his offensive talent. From being a seventh-round draft pick to a key player on the team, Finnie’s success exemplifies the impact of youth development in hockey. In addition, his community connections, particularly during Cancer Awareness events, showcase his character both on and off the ice. As he continues to adapt, the future looks promising for this young athlete and the Red Wings.
Detroit, Michigan – In an impressive start to his professional career, 20-year-old rookie forward Emmitt Finnie has been making waves in his inaugural NHL season with the Detroit Red Wings. As of January 23, 2026, he has successfully tallied 19 points (9 goals, 10 assists) over 51 games, highlighting his offensive talent alongside significant adaptability to the professional level. Finnie’s entry into the NHL is a testament not just to his individual skill but also to the growing pool of talent emerging from local and national hockey leagues.
Emmitt Finnie’s journey to the NHL has seen him progress rapidly from being selected in the seventh round (201st overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft to becoming a key player for the Red Wings. This meteoric rise underscores the impressive work being done at the youth and junior levels, showcasing how strong mentorship and developmental programs can yield results in the competitive world of professional sports.
Early Impact and Performance
Finnie began his season with a bang, scoring two goals and providing an assist in a notable 4-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on October 19, 2025. This high-energy performance secured him a position on the top line, where he played alongside captain Dylan Larkin and right winger Lucas Raymond. Such opportunities not only elevate a player’s profile but also serve to enhance team dynamics, allowing for greater offensive capabilities.
Demonstrating his resilience throughout the season, Finnie managed to bounce back from temporary slumps. In a recent game against the Minnesota Wild on January 22, 2026, he recorded an assist and fired two shots on goal, marking significant contributions even during challenging matchups. This adaptability is vital in the fast-paced world of the NHL, where game dynamics can shift rapidly.
Community Commitment
Beyond his on-ice achievements, Finnie has also taken strides to connect with the community, particularly during emotionally significant events. On November 20, 2025, during the Detroit Red Wings’ Hockey Fights Cancer Night, he honored his mother, Shannon, who has been battling liver cancer for the past three years, by drawing a cancer ribbon on his stick. This act not only shows his commitment to family but also his willingness to leverage his platform in raising awareness for significant causes affecting many.
Development Background
Prior to joining the NHL, Finnie honed his skills as captain of the Kamloops Blazers in the Western Hockey League (WHL) for the 2024-25 season. He guided the team with an impressive two-point-per-game average, recording 84 points (37 goals, 47 assists) in just 55 games. Executives from the Red Wings have expressed confidence in Finnie’s abilities, noting that he, alongside teammates Michael Brandsegg-Nygård and Axel Sandin-Pellikka, exceeded expectations during training camps that led to their placement on the 2025-26 Opening Night roster.
Team Dynamics and Future Outlook
As the Red Wings continue their pursuit of success this season, the ongoing development of players like Finnie will be critical. His ability to adapt, learn, and contribute to the team’s overall goals is much needed in a sport where every match can define a season. As he continues to grow within this dynamic team, fans and analysts alike are optimistic about what the remainder of the season holds for him and the Red Wings as a whole.
Recent Games
| Date | Opponent | Result | Finnie’s Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 22, 2026 | Minnesota Wild | 4-3 OT Loss | 1 assist, 2 shots on goal |
| January 21, 2026 | Toronto Maple Leafs | 2-1 Win | No points recorded |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Emmitt Finnie?
Emmitt Finnie is a 20-year-old rookie forward for the Detroit Red Wings, known for his offensive skills and leadership qualities.
What is Finnie’s current point total for the season?
As of January 23, 2026, Finnie has accumulated 19 points (9 goals, 10 assists) over 51 games in the 2025-26 NHL season.
How did Finnie perform in his NHL debut?
In his NHL debut on October 10, 2025, Finnie played on the first line but did not record any points in a 5-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens. He logged 12:22 of ice time and was not utilized on the power play.
What is Finnie’s background before joining the NHL?
Before entering the NHL, Finnie served as captain for the Kamloops Blazers in the Western Hockey League (WHL) during the 2024-25 season, leading the team with 84 points (37 goals, 47 assists) in 55 games.
How has Finnie contributed off the ice?
During the Red Wings’ Hockey Fights Cancer Night on November 20, 2025, Finnie honored his mother, Shannon, who has been battling liver cancer for the past three years, by drawing a cancer ribbon on his stick.
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
