The Detroit Red Wings have taken a significant step in bolstering their future by signing Finnish forward Jesse Kiiskinen to a three-year entry-level contract. The move underscores the organization’s continued investment in high-end European talent and signals their commitment to building a more dynamic and skilled roster for the years to come.
Kiiskinen, 19, has rapidly risen through the ranks of Finnish hockey and is widely regarded as one of the most promising young wingers in Europe. Selected by the Red Wings in the third round (73rd overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft, Kiiskinen has spent the past two seasons playing for the Lahti Pelicans in Liiga, Finland’s top professional league. His development has been closely monitored by Detroit’s European scouting staff, who view him as a player with the potential to make an NHL impact in the near future.
In the 2024–25 Liiga season, Kiiskinen posted a career-high 34 points (15 goals, 19 assists) in 51 games while playing against seasoned professionals. His ability to produce offensively at such a young age drew considerable attention from NHL front offices. What truly sets Kiiskinen apart, however, is his blend of high hockey IQ, strong skating, and a deceptive shot that makes him a constant threat in the offensive zone.
Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman expressed his enthusiasm for the signing in a team press release, noting that Kiiskinen brings “a competitive edge, creativity with the puck, and a willingness to play in high-traffic areas.” Yzerman also pointed to Kiiskinen’s performance in international competition as another reason the club is excited about his future.
Kiiskinen has represented Finland at various levels, including the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he recorded six points in seven games. His play on the international stage demonstrated his ability to adapt to high-pressure situations and contribute in a variety of roles, from top-line minutes to penalty killing duties. His well-rounded game has earned him praise from coaches and analysts alike.
With the new contract in place, Kiiskinen is expected to join the Red Wings for development camp this summer and could make his North American debut with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Detroit’s AHL affiliate, as early as next season. The Red Wings have had success in developing international prospects through their system, with players like Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond becoming impact contributors at the NHL level. Kiiskinen could be the next name to emerge from that pipeline.
The addition of Kiiskinen is also reflective of Detroit’s broader strategy of blending veteran leadership with youth. As the team continues its rebuild under Yzerman’s stewardship, prospects like Kiiskinen will be given every opportunity to develop their skills and earn a spot on the NHL roster. With a strong work ethic, a team-first mentality, and high-end offensive tools, Kiiskinen fits the mold of the type of player the Red Wings are looking to cultivate.
For Kiiskinen, the opportunity to sign with an Original Six franchise and one of the NHL’s most storied organizations represents a dream realized. “It’s an honor to sign with the Detroit Red Wings,” Kiiskinen said in a statement released through his agent. “I’ve followed the team for many years and know how much history there is. I’m excited to take this next step and give everything I have to make an impact.”
Fans in Detroit may have to wait a bit before Kiiskinen is regularly skating on the ice at Little Caesars Arena, but early indications suggest that the wait could be worth it. With his skill set and continued development, Jesse Kiiskinen may very well become a key piece of the Red Wings’ long-term plans, as they aim to return to perennial playoff contention and ultimately chase their 12th Stanley Cup championship.
