He Signs with the Jets
History has officially been made as the first Chinese-born player to sign an NHL contract. Early this morning, the Winnipeg Jets announced they had entered into an entry-level contract with left-winger Kevin He. The Jets selected him as the 109th pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. As of today, the NHL welcomed the first Chinese-born player to the league after his contract was signed. Marking this significant occasion, we see just how far the love of hockey really travels.
Kevin He’s Road to The Pros
He’s family originated from Beijing, China, but moved to Canada when he was just twelve years old. Shortly after their arrival, He fell in love with Toronto’s legacy and immersed himself in the sport. He began playing in the North York AAA program and never looked back. Ice hockey has long been considered a “minor” sport in most of China, but Toronto provided the atmosphere for Kevin He to nourish his passion. While the first “official” Chinese-born player selected in the NHL (2015) by the New York Islanders was Andong Song, he never signed an entry-level contract.
He’s talent and hockey sense continued to improve with New York’s Under-16 AAA program, where he scored a sensational 25 points in 16 games (13 goals and 12 assists). This stellar play led him to become the 22nd pick by Niagara IceDogs in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection Draft. He is currently playing his third year with Niagara and has continued to elevate his game. The eighteen-year-old has commented on the landmark moment, stating, “It’s incredible, a huge honor. I have a lot of fans texting me right before the draft, wishing me good luck and showing me support.”
Ice Hockey Traversing the Seas
Many countries in the old and new world love ice hockey, but these countries are generally located in the northern hemisphere. Many new countries are taking an interest in the intense game, and many are starting to notice. The Las Vegas Golden Knights traveled to Mexico this past offseason to host multiple events, including hockey clinics for young fans and aspiring players. Many rumors have manifested concerning the NHL’s aspirations to open a franchise in Mexico. Could an expansion to China be in the future?
Kevin He: A New Star for Aspiring Players
Kevin He has done more than make the history books in the NHL today. He has sent out a worldwide beacon to all aspiring hockey players around the world who find themselves unsupported in their local communities. Whether it is simply an area where ice is a rarity, lack of interest, or lack of funding, He has shown that no matter where you come from, hockey is achievable and very much alive. This momentous occasion can easily pave the way for a worldwide hockey breakout.
