Jets’ Sixth-Round Pick Dominating OHL, Poised For Pro Jump Sooner Than Expected

The Winnipeg Jets may have found one of the steals of the 2024 NHL Draft in sixth-round pick Kieron Walton. The Toronto native is dominating the OHL and looks increasingly ready to make the jump to professional hockey next season.

The 19-year-old forward spent part of last season with the Manitoba Moose, recording one assist in four games, and participated in the Jets’ preseason. Management decided he would benefit from more time in juniors, and Walton has responded by putting together a career year.

He began the season with the Sudbury Wolves, the team where he spent his entire junior career, before being traded to the Peterborough Petes. The move has clearly paid off. Walton has recorded six goals and six assists for 12 points in his first ten games with Peterborough, quickly adapting to a new team and maintaining his high level of play.

On the season, Walton has 64 points in 33 games, ranking second in the OHL. His 30 goals rank third in the league, including eight game-winners, the most of any player. His scoring ability, combined with his strong all-around game, suggests he could be ready for a larger role at the professional level.

The game winner courtesy of Kieron Walton 😮‍💨@OHLHockey#ThrowbackEra#WolvesNationpic.twitter.com/uGs6Md1Yxv

— Sudbury Wolves (@Sudbury_Wolves) December 6, 2025

If Walton can carry his current momentum into a late-season stint with the Manitoba Moose, he could be positioned to join the pro ranks full-time next season. For the Jets, a sixth-round pick who is now among the top scorers in the OHL may soon become a key prospect in their pipeline.

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