In a moment that captured the attention of ice hockey enthusiasts and observers of global sports alike, Simon Wang became the highest-drafted player born in China in National Hockey League (NHL) history. The San Jose Sharks selected the imposing defenseman with the 33rd overall pick, the first selection of the second round, at the NHL draft held on Saturday at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
Wang’s selection, while a moment of immense personal pride and national significance, also highlights the evolving landscape of ice hockey’s global reach.
An Unexpected Ascent
Wang, who stands at 6-foot-5, was not widely projected to be a first-round pick, with most analysts placing him in the mid-to-late second round. His ascent reflects a rapid development in his hockey skills over the past year. He began the season with the OJHL’s King Rebellion before joining the OHL’s Oshawa Generals mid-season, gaining more exposure during their playoff run. “The summer before the season, I thought I was going undrafted, to be honest with you,” Wang admitted. “But it happened for a reason, and I worked so hard for this. I deserve to be here.”
Read more: Chinese Center Yang Hansen Picked 16th in NBA Draft, Dealt to Portland Trail Blazers
His family moved from Beijing to Toronto when he was 12, a decision driven by his burgeoning interest in a sport that has steadily grown in popularity in China. Wang is only the third Chinese-born player ever drafted by the NHL, following Kevin He (109th pick in 2024 by Winnipeg Jets) and Andong Song (172nd pick in 2015 by New York Islanders). His real name is Haoxi Wang, but he plans to use Simon during his hockey career because, he said, “it’s simpler for North Americans.”
Analysts have praised Wang’s athleticism and physical attributes. Corey Pronman of The Athletic described him as “a premium athlete; there aren’t many 6-foot-6 defenders who can skate like he does.” Sportsnet’s Jason Bukala noted his “powerful stride” and efficient skating, while Elite Prospects’ Cam Robinson called him “the ultimate long-term project.” Wang aspires to emulate imposing two-way defensemen like Victor Hedman or Colton Parayko.
Wang is committed to Boston University for the 2026-27 season, indicating a planned pathway through collegiate hockey. This strategy offers him further time to develop his game before potentially transitioning to professional play.
Inspiring a Nation
Wang’s achievement carries a symbolic weight for Chinese ice hockey. “It’s an unreal moment for my family, for hockey in China,” Wang said, reflecting on his selection. “Just a really surreal moment, a dream-come-true moment. … I hope I’ve inspired a lot of kids back home.”
Read more: Jaylin Williams Makes History as NBA’s First Vietnamese American Champion
He expressed optimism for the future of Chinese players in the league: “Hopefully one day my record will get broken again. Someone will go in the first round, even top 10. I think there will definitely be someone that’s going to make a huge impact on the game.” His selection at pick 33 is a significant step towards that aspiration, marking a new benchmark for representation from China in the NHL.
