Kevin He Becomes First Chinese-Born Player to Sign NHL Contract

The Winnipeg Jets have signed the 18-year-old forward to a three-year entry-level deal, marking a historic milestone for diversity in professional hockey.

Kevin He, born in Beijing, signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Winnipeg Jets, valued at $975,000 annually in the NHL.
He was drafted 109th overall in the fourth round of the 2024 NHL Draft, making him the highest Chinese-born player ever selected.
He moved to Canada at age six, began organized hockey in Montreal, and now captains the Niagara IceDogs in the Ontario Hockey League.
With 23 goals and 20 assists in 29 games this season, He has accumulated 130 points across 159 career OHL games.
Kevin Cheveldayoff, the Jets' general manager, highlighted the significance of He's signing for growing diversity and representation in hockey.