Kevin He made hockey history on Tuesday when he signed a three-year entry-level contract with the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets, becoming the first player born in China to sign with an NHL team.
Born in Beijing, the 18-year-old forward embarked on his hockey journey after his family relocated to Montreal when he was six years old. It was there that He first laced up his skates and discovered his passion for the sport.
In the 2024 NHL Draft, He achieved a significant milestone by becoming the highest China-born player ever drafted, selected by the Jets in the fourth round. His ascent in the hockey world has been marked by dedication and impressive performance.
Currently in his third season with the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), He has showcased remarkable skills on the ice. This season, he has amassed an impressive 43 points, comprising 23 goals and 20 assists over 29 games. His leadership qualities were also recognized when he was named team captain in October.
He’s signing is a landmark moment not only for himself but also for the representation of China-born athletes in professional hockey. Prior to He, Song Andong became the first China-born player drafted into the NHL when the New York Islanders selected him in the sixth round of the 2015 NHL Draft. However, Song did not sign an entry-level contract with the team.
He’s progression to signing with an NHL team marks a significant step forward, potentially inspiring a new generation of hockey players from China and highlighting the growing global reach of the sport.
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Kevin He becomes first player born in China to sign with NHL team
cgtn.com
