Quinn Finley, a standout forward for the University of Wisconsin, is officially trading his collegiate jersey for professional gear. The New York Islanders announced Wednesday that Finley signs an entry-level contract with New York Islanders for two years, a deal set to begin with the 2026-27 season.
The move marks the culmination of a steady ascent for the Suamico, Wisconsin, native, who has spent the last three seasons evolving into one of the most dangerous offensive threats in the Big Ten. Selected by the Islanders in the third round of the 2022 NHL Draft at No. 78 Finley leaves the Badgers as a proven producer with a championship pedigree on the international stage.
For Finley, the signing is the realization of a lifelong ambition, though he views the contract as a starting line rather than a finish line. “It means the world,” Finley said. “The work kind of starts now, as my dad said. You have to bring your game up to the next level and be ready to go.”
A trajectory of growth in Madison
Finley’s tenure at Wisconsin was defined by a consistent upward trajectory in both skill and maturity. Under the guidance of Coach Hastings, the forward transformed from a promising rookie into a primary offensive engine for the team. His sophomore campaign in 2024-25 served as his breakout year, where he recorded a career-high 20 goals and 20 assists for 40 points.
That 40-point mark was more than just a personal best; it placed Finley in elite company. He became the first Badger skater to reach the 20-goal, 40-point threshold since the prolific Cole Caufield did so in 2021. This surge in production earned him a spot as an All-Big Ten Second-Team Selection and honors as the Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off Most Outstanding Forward.
| Season | Goals | Points | Key Distinction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freshman | 10 | 16 | Tim Taylor Rookie Watch List |
| Sophomore | 20 | 40 | First 20G/40P Badger since 2021 |
| Junior | 17 | 33 | Team Goal Leader |
Finley maintained his impact through his junior season, leading the team in goals with 17 and ranking second in overall scoring with 33 points across 37 games. His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments was evident in the 2026 NCAA Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament regionals, where he led all skaters with five points in two games, propelling the Badgers to a national title game appearance and earning Worcester Regional All-Tournament Team honors.
International pedigree and professional readiness
Beyond the collegiate ranks, Finley has already tested himself against the world’s best. He played a pivotal role in Team USA’s success, contributing to a gold medal at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. His international resume also includes a first-place finish at the 2022 World Junior A Challenge, where he tallied six points in two goals.
Most recently, Finley represented the U.S. Collegiate Selects at the 2025 Spengler Cup. In four tournament games, he recorded two goals and five points, helping the squad secure a second-place finish. This exposure to professional-style play in Europe, combined with his time in the USHL with the Madison Capitols and Chicago Steel, has prepared him for the rigorous demands of the NHL.
“When I first came to Wisconsin, I came here to develop, mature and grow my game,” Finley said. “I think being here helped my game tremendously. Being with Coach Hastings the last three years, I thought I grew in parts of my game that are needed at the next level.”
Deep roots and a grateful exit
Despite the excitement of moving to New York, Finley remains deeply connected to his home state and the city of Madison. A native of Suamico, he expressed a profound appreciation for the local support he received throughout his college career, noting the emotional impact of hearing the announcers highlight his hometown during games.
The forward’s time as a Badger was as much about personal growth as it was about athletics. An Academic All-Big Ten skater, Finley balanced the physical toll of elite hockey with academic rigor, embodying the student-athlete ideal. “I love my time here. I love being a Badger,” Finley said. “It is the best three years of my life and I have some friends for life.”
As he prepares for the transition, Finley plans to maintain his ties to the program, mentioning his intention to return to Madison during the summers to train with his former teammates. “This place is one of one,” he said. “There’s no other place like it.”
Finley’s transition to the professional ranks will officially commence with the start of the 2026-27 season, following the conclusion of his current commitments. The Islanders organization will likely monitor his development closely as he prepares for his first official training camp.
Do you think Finley will make the Islanders’ opening night roster in 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
