Simon Wang, top Chinese NHL draftee, joins Sharks at 33

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    In Los Angeles, a landmark moment unfolded in the NHL draft, seizing the hockey world’s attention. Simon Wang, a towering defenseman from China, experienced a proud and exhilarating milestone as the San Jose Sharks selected him with the first pick of the second round. Standing tall at 6-foot-5, Wang marked history as the highest-drafted Chinese-born player ever at the NHL draft. Wang expressed his elation, saying, “It’s an unreal moment for my family, for hockey in China. Just a really surreal moment, a dream-come-true moment. I hope I’ve inspired a lot of kids back home.” Wang’s journey reflects a burgeoning interest in ice hockey within China, a nation progressively embracing the sport.

    Wang’s ascent to the NHL spotlight, being selected 33rd overall, came as the NHL wrapped up its draft, uniquely held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. This year’s draft began with the New York Islanders selecting defenseman Matthew Schaefer as the top overall pick. Wang’s path into elite hockey circles began at age 12 when he relocated from Beijing to Toronto, a move designed to enhance his hockey ambitions. Notably, Wang’s first encounter with hockey was during the NHL China Games, which left a lasting impression on him.

    As the NHL’s third Chinese-born draft pick, Wang joins a small yet promising group of peers, including Kevin He, drafted 109th by the Winnipeg Jets last year, and Andong Song, selected 172nd by the New York Islanders in 2015. Wang remains optimistic that soon others will surpass him, hoping that a Chinese player will one day be among the top 10 picks. He looks up to becoming a formidable two-way defenseman, inspired by players like Victor Hedman and Colton Parayko, and believes his journey has just begun, particularly after gaining attention with impressive performances and joining the OHL’s Oshawa Generals.

    Wang’s story takes root from a childhood trip to Los Angeles, where at the mere age of 10, he attended a Kings game. Although he humorously recalls dozing off during the game, the event marked a pivotal point in his love for hockey. His dedication peaked when he later witnessed a Bruins-Flames matchup in Beijing in 2018, sparking his move to Canada to amplify his growth in the sport.

    On draft day, Wang walked the red carpet with his supportive mother, who has been instrumental in his remarkable journey, even going as far as acquiring and relocating his junior team to enhance his career. Emotional reunions colored the day as Wang reunited with his brother, who studies at Boston University, a potential future educational stop for Wang himself if his next season plays out well in Oshawa.

    The NHL draft was not short of excitement beyond Wang’s story. On the second day, significant trades included Anaheim Ducks’ veteran goalie John Gibson moving to Detroit, and defenseman Jordan Spence heading from Los Angeles to Ottawa. Families gathered to share in the electrifying atmosphere, including Alexis Mathieu’s, celebrating his 136th overall selection by the Anaheim Ducks. The immense pride and joy among the players and their families were palpable, illustrating the collective enthusiasm surrounding the draft.

    Both excitement and anticipation enveloped the late rounds, with Aidan Park, another draft pick present in the audience, rounding off an unforgettable experience. Park, representing the Los Angeles Jr. Kings system and the nephew of NHL veteran Richard Park, received rousing applause when the Edmonton Oilers selected him 223rd overall, marking his formal step onto the NHL stage.