While the Red Wings rookies like Anton Johansson and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard have been getting the majority of attention as Detroit begins their season, sophomore Emmitt Finnie has quietly become a key part of the Red Wings offense.
Finnie was the surprise of last year’s Red Wings training camp, making the opening night roster despite his seventh round draft pedigree. With all the tumult since the end of Finnie rookie season, the excitement and anticipation for the now 21-year-old forward’s sophomore season has been somewhat lost in the mix.
However, based on how his coaches and teammates speak of him, Finnie figures to be a long term piece of the Red Wings future, no matter his position. (Provided upper management doesn’t chase him away too.)
Point Forward
The Red Wings have been preaching a faster, more physical, and more grinding approach to their playstyle this year, which suits the combination of size and speed that Finnie brings to the ice. The young forward is tied for second on the team in hits so far this year alongside Keegan Kolesar and Ben Chiarot.
“I thought Finn’s speed was something that Cat and his line mates could use. It worked, so we’ll probably look at keeping something like that.” McLellan said.
The Red Wings top six hadn’t been able to generate any offense outside of a power play goal in the five periods before the switch.
The sample size is limited, but it appears that putting DeBrincat alongside two physical, fast paced forwards is the recipe for the Red Wings’ success. At the very least, the line, and Finnie, generate plenty of opportunities for the Red Wings.
“I like playing with him. He’s playing fast. He wants to same thing as I want. So, I mean, he’s a good player, strong with the puck, and plays direct.” Brandsegg-Nygard said.
Finnie a core part of the plan
Still, the Red Wings only have two goals through six periods of play and have struggled to look threatening in the o-zone despite spending a significant amount of time there. Some of that will hopefully change as players like Dylan Larkin and Marco Kasper return to the lineup from injury.
“I think we’re a good team. We have a good connection in the locker room and as I said, we want the right thing. We’re working hard and playing physical with each other. Just connect a little better.” Brandsegg-Nygard said.
Kasper returning soon could mean the Red Wings bump Andrew Copp further down the lineup. For now though, getting a little more stability, and a little more offensive chemistry going by putting Finnie in at center also allows the Red Wings more flexibility throughout the rest of the lineup.
“Obviously we’re a little short through the center ice position and the ability to move him in there, that’s where he was drafted,” McLellan said, “That’s where he’ll likely end up, I think, playing for us for a long time.”