ECHL: Isak Walther Signs With Sport in Finland’s Liiga

Photo: Taylor Trebotte | Inside the Rink

The Atlanta Gladiators will have another major hole to fill heading into the 2026-27 season as forward Isak Walther has signed overseas with Sport in Finland’s Liiga.

Strong Rookie Season in Atlanta

Walther heads to one of Europe’s top professional leagues after making an immediate impact during his first season in North America. The 6-foot-4 winger appeared in 62 games with Atlanta during the 2025-26 season, recording 23 goals and 20 assists for 43 points while quickly becoming one of the Gladiators’ most dangerous offensive threats. He also added two points in six Kelly Cup Playoff games.

Atlanta fans saw Walther’s offensive upside from the start. His combination of size, reach, and skating ability allowed him to create matchup problems throughout the season, especially off the rush and around the net front. The Swedish forward regularly used his frame to protect the puck while still showing the hands and finishing ability that made him a sixth-round draft pick of the Nashville Predators in 2019.

Walther’s strong season in Atlanta also earned him an opportunity in the AHL. He appeared in four games with the Milwaukee Admirals during the season and recorded an assist while continuing his development against higher-level competition.

Before turning pro, Walther spent four seasons at the University of Vermont, where he steadily developed into a reliable two-way forward at the NCAA level. Prior to coming to North America, he played in Sweden’s junior system with Södertälje SK.

Atlanta Faces Another Major Offseason Loss

Walther now joins Sport in Liiga, one of Europe’s top professional leagues, as he looks to continue building on the momentum from his first professional season. His departure, alongside Nychuk’s recent overseas move, highlights both the success Atlanta had developing talent during the 2025-26 season and the challenges the organization now faces replacing several major contributors.

For Atlanta, replacing Walther’s production will not be easy. His 23 goals ranked among the team leaders, and his ability to contribute in multiple situations made him a valuable part of the lineup throughout the year. Still, Walther now takes his scoring talents to Finland, looking to build on the momentum of a successful rookie professional season with Atlanta.