The New York Islanders announced on Tuesday that they have reached an agreement with Finnish goaltender Henrik Tikkanen, signing him to a one-year, two-way contract that can swing between the NHL and the American Hockey League.
Islanders Secure Tikkanen's Services
At 25 years old, Tikkanen brings a blend of size and experience after a breakout season with the Bridgeport Islanders, where he posted a 17-9-1 record, a 2.65 goals-against average and a .897 save percentage in 1628 minutes of play.
The Finnish 6-foot-8 netminder, originally from Lohja, has been a fixture in the AHL for three seasons, compiling a career record of 31-33-6 with a 3.06 goals-against average and a .892 save percentage across 77 games.
His performance earned him a spot on the 2026 Warrior/ECHL All-Star Classic roster, highlighting his rising profile among prospects.
Tikkanen was originally drafted by the Islanders in the seventh round of the 2020 NHL Draft, and his development has been marked by stints with both Bridgeport and the Worcester Railers, where he posted a 5-2-1 record with a 2.03 goals-against average and a .929 save percentage in eight appearances.
The move underscores the Islanders' intent to bolster depth in net, especially as they look to add stability behind the current starter.
A Physical Presence in Goal
Standing at 6-foot-8, Tikkanen offers a rare physical dimension for the organization, a trait that coaches often cite as valuable in modern NHL play.
General manager Lou Lamoriello praised the signing, noting that Tikkanen's work ethic and ability to handle high-pressure situations align with the team's culture.
The contract also includes an AHL clause that guarantees a competitive salary in the minors, giving the player a clear path to the NHL should injuries arise.
Fans can expect to see Tikkanen in action during the upcoming preseason, where his debut will be closely watched as a potential future option for the Islanders' crease.