Speedy He a Jet
Kevin He was able to contain his emotions even on the biggest day of his hockey career.
The 18-year-old winger for the Niagara IceDogs kept himself on an even keel Saturday even after being selected by the Winnipeg Jets in the fourth round (109th overall) of the National Hockey League draft.
“Honestly, I thought I was going to be way more anxious and nervous going into it,” He said from Las Vegas where the draft was held. “I think the whole thing sitting there waiting, you are a little anxious, but to me I felt at peace and was pretty calm.”
When he did finally hear his name called, the speedy forward wasn’t quite sure how to react.
“I was speechless,” he said. “I’m kind of out of words right now.”
He was accompanied to the draft by his billet family, as well as aunts, cousins and nephews.
“I had no idea where I was going to go, so when Winnipeg jumped up it was pretty exciting to see. Lots of hugs for family, friends and coaches.”
He was also thankful to the IceDogs organization for making the trip and offering their support.
“The whole IceDogs staff was there,” He said. “From top to bottom, the owner, coaches, front office staff. Everyone played a huge part in it.”
IceDogs coach Ben Boudreau was thrilled for He.
“We are all behind Kevin,” Boudreau said. “This is a great sign of not only where Kevin’s hockey career is on the right path but so is the entire organization for the IceDogs,” Boudreau said. “There is a lot to look forward to and Kevin is a great ambassador to showcase what we are trying to achieve in Niagara.”
He, who becomes the highest drafted Chinese born player in NHL history, met with several members of the Jets organization and had lunch with them and other Winnipeg draft picks.
“I was there with my best friend, Kieron Walton (Sudbury), who also got selected by Winnipeg so I was pretty excited to see him,” He said. “I just wanted to go to a team that believed in me as a player and as a person and for me that was Winnipeg. I’m incredibly thankful and honoured to be selected by them.”
He won’t have much time to celebrate — he’s leaving for Winnipeg tomorrow to attend development camp.
“Just to stay true to myself and show them what I can do on and off the ice,” He said.
He led the IceDogs in goals (31) and was second in points with 53 to Gavin Bryant last season and is looking for bigger and better things in 2024/25.
“I’m very much looking forward to it. Obviously, I’ve got some other things ahead of that right now and that’s what I’m focused on,” he said.
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