Former Blazers Captain Finnie Off to Hot Start in Rookie Season with Red Wings

Image Credit: Gerry Angus

Former Kamloops Blazers captain Emmitt Finnie is off to a strong start in his first NHL season with the Detroit Red Wings, establishing himself as an early contributor on the team’s top line.

Through seven games, Finnie has recorded three goals and three assists for six points, along with a plus-seven rating. He has registered 13 shots on goal and a handful of hits, showing a balance of offensive instinct and physical play. His ability to adapt quickly to the speed and structure of the NHL has impressed both teammates and coaches.

Finnie’s early production has been boosted by his chemistry with Dylan Larkin, Detroit’s captain and top center. The two have formed a steady combination at even strength, driving puck possession and generating consistent scoring chances. In Detroit’s 5–3 win over the Edmonton Oilers, Finnie scored twice, both coming off sequences started by Larkin.

Analysts have taken notice of his game as well. On Spittin’ Chiclets, Paul Bissonnette pointed out Finnie’s intelligence away from the puck and his reliability in different situations, calling his overall awareness highly impressive for a rookie.

Finnie, who captained the Blazers last season, was known for his two-way play and attention to detail in the WHL. Those same traits have translated to Detroit, where he is already being trusted with meaningful minutes and opportunities alongside the team’s top forwards.

Detroit’s coaching staff has praised Finnie’s ability to read plays and stay composed under pressure. If his current form continues, he is expected to remain a fixture in the Red Wings’ top six as the season progresses.