Jets Former First-Round Pick Officially Moves On

Earlier this week, we reported that Kristian Vesalainen was set to head overseas for the 2022-23 season. Now, it has been confirmed that the 2017 first-round pick has signed with the Malmo Redhawks of the SHL.

With this, Vesalainen's tenure with the Winnipeg Jets has come to a close. Overall, it's fair to say that he didn't meet the expectations of being a first-rounder. In 70 games over three seasons, he had two goals, three assists, and a minus-8 rating. When given a bigger chance this year, he struggled, as he put up a three-point campaign in 53 contests.

Perhaps this move to the Swedish Hockey League could help him get his game back on track, however. Keep in mind, he is still only 22 years old and has plenty of time to develop. If he lights up the SHL with the Redhawks, maybe he will get a second shot in the NHL later down the road. Alas, we will have to wait and see what happens there.