San Jose’s decision to draft defenseman Haoxi (Simon) Wang early in the second round in 2025 came with a clear bet on size and upside. At 6-foot-6 and 215 pounds, Wang’s long reach and strong skating already give him tools that frustrate opponents in his own zone. If his development continues, he could become the first player born in China to reach the NHL.
Wang, who turns 19 on Monday, was born in Beijing and moved to Toronto at age 12 to chase a hockey career. He climbed through the junior ranks and split last season in the Ontario Hockey League between Oshawa and Niagara, producing 26 points (six goals, 20 assists) in 57 games.
Wang’s Development and Leadership Skills
Niagara general manager Dale DeGray has described Wang as a rare blend of length, mobility, and growing puck skills, and believes he can handle major minutes and special-teams work if he returns to junior. DeGray also noted that Wang’s presence on the ice and within the room draws teammates in, a sign of leadership that can anchor a group.
Wang recently wrapped up his second Sharks development camp, which ended July 2, and felt tangible progress from his first camp a year earlier. He aimed to show coaches and management a more complete two-way game and the ability to shoulder heavy minutes. He also tried to take on a louder leadership role among prospects, building bonds with newcomers, including 2026 first-rounders Ivar Stenberg (No. 2) and defenseman Ryan Lin (No. 21).
The next step in Wang’s path comes this season at Boston University, where the collegiate schedule and competition should test him in new ways. He has said that his heritage fuels his motivation, and that the possibility of breaking new ground for Chinese players in the NHL is a driving force.
There is still distance between prospect status and an NHL roster spot, but Wang’s size, skating base, growing confidence, and leadership signs point to steady momentum toward that goal. He also hopes his journey encourages more Asian players to get involved in hockey and eventually make their way to the League. As Wang continues to develop, he may very well become a pioneering figure in the sport, inspiring future generations of players from diverse backgrounds.