The Winnipeg Jets, since their relocation from Atlanta in 2011, have had varying degrees of success in the NHL Entry Draft. While first-round picks often garner the most attention, the second round can be a crucial source for finding valuable players who can contribute to the team's success. Looking back at the Jets' history of second-round selections provides insight into their drafting strategies and the potential for finding impactful talent beyond the initial round.
Examining the Jets' second-round picks reveals a mix of players, some who have become mainstays in the NHL and others who haven't reached their full potential. Some notable second-round picks have become regular contributors to the Jets roster. Dylan Samberg (43rd overall, 2017) has developed into a reliable, defensively sound presence on the second pairing. David Gustafsson (60th overall, 2018) has played 149 games with the Jets over six seasons, filling a role as a fourth-line center or winger, despite facing challenges with injuries. Eric Comrie (59th overall, 2013) has also made 44 appearances as a Jets goalie.
Currently, the Jets have some promising prospects from the second round who are developing within the organization. Elias Salomonsson (55th overall, 2022) transitioned to North America for the 2024-25 season and played with the Manitoba Moose. Nikita Chibrikov (50th overall, 2021) had a strong first season with the Moose, earning him a call-up to the Jets.
In the 2024 NHL Draft, the Winnipeg Jets selected Alfons Freij with the 37th overall pick in the second round. Freij, a left-shot defenseman from Sweden, is known for his skating and puck-moving abilities. Mark Hillier, Winnipeg Jets Director of amateur scouting, highlighted Freij's power-play potential and ability to escape pressure. The Jets also drafted Kevin He (109th overall), Markus Loponen (155th overall), and Kieron Walton (187th overall) in later rounds of the 2024 draft. Kevin He is notable as the first Chinese-born player to sign an NHL contract.
Overall, the Winnipeg Jets' second-round draft history demonstrates the importance of this round for identifying players who can develop into valuable assets for the team. While not every pick will become a star, the Jets have found several players in the second round who have contributed to their success. With a continued focus on scouting and development, the Jets can increase their chances of finding impactful players in the second round and beyond.
