Detroit Red Wings
Red Wings Prospect Makes Bold Move in International Debut
Kiiskinen goes for Michigan
Had it succeeded, Detroit Red Wings prospect Jesse Kiiskinen would’ve been left with a memorable tale to tell about his senior international debut.
Playing for Finland against Latvia, Kiiskinen tried to score a Michigan goal. Though he was foiled by Latvian goaltender Gustavs Grigals, just the fact that Kiiskinen was willing to attempt such a bold move in his first senior international appearance for his homeland speaks volumes to the kind of swagger this kid carries out on the ice.
Jesse Kiiskinen Michigan attempt in his Finnish Men’s national team debut! #LGRW pic.twitter.com/C0AnCQUwHs
— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) April 9, 2025
He could be seen beaming on the bench following the completion of his shift. Kiiskinen also got a pat on the back for his bold scoring attempt from Finnish coach Antti Pennanen.
“They just told me to use my strengths and do what I do best,” Kiiskinen said in a post-game interview on Finnish TV (hat tip to @LGRWprospects for getting the translation).
“Then some good things happen now and then.”
Latvia wound up winning the game 3-2. Kiiskinen skated on Finland’s top forward line and didn’t figure in the scoring.
Still, that didn’t damper the moment one bit for him.
“Yeah, it was a good one,” Kiiskinen said. “It was cool to play.
“Haven’t had a better experience so far.”
Red Wings Prospect Tried Michigan Before
It’s not the first time that Kiiskinen has tried to score a lacrosse-style goal that’s become known in hockey circles as the Michigan. He also made an attempt this season while playing for HPK in Finland’s SM-liiga.
Jesse Kiiskinen Michigan Attempt. He is feeling himself. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/h7Odz3SMln
— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) January 31, 2025
That try was also unsuccessful.
The 19-year-old right-winger led HPK in scoring this season with 14-30-44 totals. Kiiskinen also scored a team-leading six goals for Finland at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, helping his homeland earn a silver medal.
He has one year remaining on his contract with HPK. The Red Wings acquired Kiiskinen’s rights in a trade last year with the Nashville Predators.
