In a strategic move to address a shortage of right-handed blueliners, the Vegas Golden Knights signed Antti Tuomisto to a two-year, two-way contract worth $1.75 million ($875,000 AAV) on July 1, 2026. The 25-year-old Finn brings a rare combination of elite size and offensive acumen to the Vegas pipeline.
From NCAA Champion to AHL Breakout
Tuomisto’s pedigree is significant and spans multiple top-tier leagues:
- Draft Pedigree: Selected 35th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in 2019.
- Collegiate & European Success: A 2022 NCAA National Champion with the University of Denver. Following his NCAA career, he spent a highly successful season in Finland's top league (Liiga) playing for TPS before transitioning to North American pro hockey.
- AHL Breakthrough: Entering his fourth pro season in North America, Tuomisto has steadily climbed the ranks from the ECHL (Toledo Walleye) to the AHL. During the 2025-26 season with the Grand Rapids Griffins, he recorded career highs in goals (8), assists (21), and points (29) in 68 games. His staggering +30 plus/minus rating ranked 5th among all AHL defensemen. Over his AHL career, he has compiled 16 goals and 57 assists across 185 regular-season games.
Scouting Report: A Modern Giant
At 6'5" and 217 lbs, Tuomisto provides a massive presence on the right side of the ice. He is not merely a "stay-at-home" player; scouts highlight his mobility for his frame and an excellent point shot that makes him a weapon on the power play. While his physical game and defensive-zone coverage are areas of ongoing development, his ability to handle pressure with clever pivots and cut-backs allows for clean breakouts.
The Right-Shot Premium in Vegas
Following the trades of Kaedan Korczak and Zach Whitecloud, Vegas entered the 2026 offseason with a clear right-shot deficit. Tuomisto’s arrival provides a much-needed right-handed option. While he is expected to spend the majority of the season anchoring the blue line for the Henderson Silver Knights, he will enter training camp competing for a bottom-pair NHL role, providing a high-upside alternative to established veterans.