Reece Newkirk Signs with Islanders
May 13, 2021 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Portland Winterhawks News Release
PORTLAND, Ore. - The Portland Winterhawks, proud member club of the Western Hockey League, shared today that forward Reece Newkirk has signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League.
The Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan native was drafted by the Islanders in the fifth round (#147 overall) of 2019 NHL Entry Draft.
"I'm just super honored and excited to sign my first NHL contract with the New York Islanders," Newkirk said. "I want to thank my parents, my coaches, my teammates, billets and agents for everything they've done for me. Without them I wouldn't be where I am today and I'm super excited for my upcoming future with the New York Islanders organization."
A member of the Winterhawks organization since 2017, Newkirk has played in 205 regular season games with the club, totaling 69 goals and 93 assists for 162 points. He represented the Winterhawks leadership corp for the last two seasons as an alternate captain.
Newkirk is the latest Portland forward, joining notable Winterhawks alumni Kieffer Bellows and Nino Niederreiter, looking to make the jump and find success in the professional ranks with the Islanders.
The left-handed forward recently completed his 19-year-old season and would be eligible to play in Portland during the 2021-22 WHL Season, should the Islanders choose the loan him to Portland.
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