Is Kieron Walton the Jets’ Next Big Power Forward Project?
Kieron Walton is one of those prospects who kind of jump off the page the second you see his size and production together. Drafted 187th overall by the Winnipeg Jets in 2024 out of the Sudbury Wolves, he’s a massive 6-foot-6, 227-pound forward who already plays way more skilled than you’d expect for someone that big. That combo alone makes you pay attention.
Walton took a big step forward in the 2024–25 season.
Walton spent most of his time in the OHL with Sudbury, and his production really took off. In 2024–25, he put up 92 points in 66 games, and followed that up with another strong season split between Sudbury Wolves and the Peterborough Petes, finishing with 52 points in 33 games and then 36 points in 29 games after the move. Even in a shorter AHL look with the Manitoba Moose, he managed to pick up a point in just four games, which is a pretty decent little “welcome to pro hockey” moment.
But the thing that really stands out with Walton isn’t even just the points; it’s how he plays. This is a guy who led the entire OHL with 364 shots in a season. That’s not just volume, that’s constant involvement. He’s always around the puck, always looking to shoot, and always putting pressure on goalies. The next-closest guy was way behind him, which tells you just how much of his game is built on attacking and creating chances.
Walton has surprisingly good hands for a player his size.
And for a player his size, there’s real skill there too. He’s got soft hands for a big man, can make plays off the cycle, and isn’t just a straight-line grinder. He’s also shown he can shift between centre and wing, which gives Winnipeg some interesting flexibility down the road. The Jets have always liked heavy, hardworking forwards, but Walton brings a little more creativity than your typical power forward prospect.
Now obviously, he’s still a sixth-round pick, so nobody’s saying he’s a sure thing. The skating still has to come along, and consistency at the pro level is always the big question with OHL dominance. But players with his frame, shot volume, and offensive instincts don’t grow on trees.
Could Walton become part of the Jets’ future plans?
If he keeps trending the way he has been, it wouldn’t be surprising at all if Walton pushes his way into the Jets’ long-term plans. And honestly, for a late pick, Winnipeg might’ve stumbled into something a lot more interesting than people expected.