Fast-Rising Jets Prospect Out Three to Five Weeks After Surgery, Delaying Pro Debut

While much of the focus within the Winnipeg Jets organization has been on the NHL club and the situation surrounding Connor Hellebuyck, there was a significant health update elsewhere in the system on prospect Kieron Walton.

It was reported this past week that Walton had been recovering from a lower-body injury and recently underwent surgery. The procedure will delay his professional debut with the Manitoba Moose by three to five weeks.

A sixth-round pick by the Jets in 2024, Walton has quickly emerged as a potential draft gem. The six-foot-six, 20-year-old forward posted stellar numbers at the junior level, scoring 52 goals and 88 points in 62 games last season while playing for Sudbury and Peterborough. He had been set to make the jump to the pro level this season.

That combination of size and scoring touch makes Walton one of the more intriguing storylines for the Moose this year. If he lives up to his potential, he could become one of the smartest draft decisions Kevin Cheveldayoff has made since selecting Mason Appleton in the sixth round of the 2015 NHL Draft.

Manitoba has gotten off to a hot start, riding a three-game win streak into Wednesday’s matchup with the Grand Rapids Griffins. Walton will join a rookie class that has largely impressed so far. 

Lucas Wahlin is averaging a point per game through six games, while other exciting Jets prospects like Kevin He and Alfons Freij have also made strong impressions in their rookie campaigns. Together, they’ve helped the Moose to a 5-1-0-0 record, which is tied with two other clubs for the second-best mark in the AHL.

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