The Winnipeg Jets are on the lookout for more talent as they aim to bolster their NHL roster, and they might just have found a hidden gem in Kieron Walton. Standing tall at 6-foot-6, Walton was a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, taken 187th overall. His performance in the OHL with Sudbury last season turned heads, and he’s continued to impress this year with both Sudbury and the Peterborough Petes.
Walton's size and skill have caught the eye of prospect expert Steven Ellis from Daily Faceoff. Ellis notes that Walton’s breakout season with Sudbury, where he racked up 38 goals and 92 points, was a significant achievement.
He even notched his first professional point with the AHL’s Manitoba Moose. Although he didn’t quite match those numbers this year, his split campaign between Sudbury and Peterborough was still noteworthy.
Ellis describes Walton as a commanding presence on the ice, particularly around the crease, where he excels at finding teammates during breakouts. This combination of size and skill makes him a formidable force.
Ellis goes on to speculate whether Walton could develop into a player akin to Buffalo Sabres’ standout Tage Thompson. While Walton may not be known for elite skating, the potential for him to become a major asset for the Jets is tantalizing. Big forwards often take time to reach their peak, but Walton is already looking like a draft steal just two years in.
Even if Walton reaches only a fraction of Thompson’s potential, it would be a huge win for Winnipeg from a sixth-round selection. This development is definitely promising news for the Jets and their future aspirations.