A remarkable young hockey player, Simon Wang, is making history as the highest drafted Chinese-born player in NHL history. His journey to success began in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), where he honed his skills and passion for the game. Wang, who was born in China, moved to Toronto at the age of 12, where he immersed himself in the competitive hockey scene.
In the 2025 NHL draft, Wang was selected 33rd overall by the San Jose Sharks, marking him as the first pick of the second round. His achievements are a significant milestone not only for himself but also for his family and the hockey community in China, showcasing the growing prominence of the sport in his home country. “It means the world to me... to my family, to what I put into hockey, and to hockey back home in China,” Wang expressed.
Although Wang has not signed an official contract with the Sharks yet, he has been actively involved in the team's training sessions as part of the prospect roster. Practicing alongside some of the NHL's elite players gives him invaluable experience and insights into the professional hockey world. “It’s definitely special training with NHL guys every day... Definitely motivate[s] me every day,” Wang stated, reflecting on the unique opportunity.
Wang’s dedication is evident as he shares, “Waking up thinking about, you know, you’re going to be on the ice with guys making $18 million a year, like, that thing is special to me. It’s not about the money. It’s more about making your dream come true.” His journey began in Beijing at the tender age of four, and his subsequent move to Toronto shaped his passion and determination to succeed in hockey.
Initially, the transition to life in Toronto was challenging for Wang, who expressed, “When I first came, I didn’t know where I was. Toronto was so unfamiliar to me.” Living with a friend while his parents remained in China added to his feelings of homesickness. However, this experience taught him resilience, as he navigated practices and training without the immediate support of his family. “Throughout the years, living by myself, planning my schedules, being disciplined, definitely shaped me as a person as well,” he reflected.
Standing at an impressive six feet six inches tall, Wang played as a defenceman for the Oshawa Generals and the Niagara IceDogs in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). His standout performances have not only showcased his on-ice talent but also his growth as an athlete competing in the high-stakes Ontario hockey system. Wang’s journey is deeply intertwined with the city of Toronto, which he considers his second home and a springboard to his successful hockey career.
Looking ahead, Wang has set his sights on further development through the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). He plans to refine his skills and prepare for the professional ranks. “My plan is definitely to step my foot into the NCAA route and develop my hockey skills and be more polished for the next level. And then after two to three years when I’m ready for professional hockey, eventually I’ll turn pro,” he explained.
This upcoming fall, Wang will continue his pursuit of a hockey career by attending Boston University, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in his journey. Though he has already etched his name in history books as a pioneering player, this young talent understands that his journey in the sport is just beginning, and he remains focused on achieving his dreams.
