In a move that’s turning heads in the hockey world, the Winnipeg Jets have officially signed up-and-coming prospect Kieron Walton to a three-year deal. Announced on Sunday, the contract kicks off in the 2025-26 season – and if you’re into rising stars and underdog stories, this one’s got all the right ingredients.
At just 18, Walton’s already making waves. The Jets picked him 187th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft – not exactly a headline-grabbing spot, but it’s clear the lad’s got more than a bit of magic in his skates. Under the terms of his new deal, Walton will earn $775K per year if he plays at the NHL level. If he ends up developing further with the Manitoba Moose in the AHL, he’ll take home $80K next season and $85K in each of the two seasons after that. Either way, it’s not a bad payday for a teenager fresh out of junior hockey.
This past season has seen Walton really come into his own. During the regular season with the Sudbury Wolves, the towering 6-foot-6 forward racked up a jaw-dropping 38 goals and 92 points, putting him ninth in the league for scoring. Those numbers speak for themselves, especially considering his draft position. You can bet the Jets are chuffed with that return.
His playoff performance didn’t quite have the same fireworks – five points in four games – but with the Wolves getting swept by the Kingston Frontenacs in the first round of the OHL playoffs, it’s tough to pin that on him. Still, those brief glimpses of his potential have clearly been enough to convince Winnipeg’s top brass he’s worth locking in.
With just a few games left in the AHL season, there’s even chatter about the Moose giving Walton a chance to hit the ice in the final stretch of the 2024-25 campaign. It would be a cracking opportunity for him to get a taste of the pro game before the full contract kicks in next year.
While it’s early days yet, Walton’s combination of size, scoring touch, and sheer presence on the ice has fans buzzing. Could he be the next big thing for the Jets? Only time will tell – but this signing feels like it could be the start of something special.