Jets' 2021 first-round pick, World Junior bronze medalist loaned to the Western Hockey League

The Winnipeg Jets announced on Monday that they've assigned 2022 first-round pick and World Junior bronze medalist Chaz Lucius to the Portland Thunderbirds of the Western Hockey League.

Lucius, 19, was drafted by the Portland Winterhawks in the 2018 WHL Draft and remained on their protected list after he enrolled at the University of Minnesota in 2021. After one year in the NCAA, he decided to sign his entry-level contract with the Winnipeg Jets, ultimately ending his brief college career.

The 18th overall pick in 2021 started this season in the American Hockey League with the Manitoba Moose, where in 12 games, he put up five points (two goals, three assists), six penalty minutes and was a minus-two.

Lucius then left for the United States' Selection Camp ahead of the 2023 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, where he helped the team to a bronze medal, recording seven points in seven games along the way.

The White Bear Lake, Minn. native will report to the Winterhawks upon the conclusion of their East Division road trip.

ROSE CITY BOUND 🌹

The Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) today assigned 2021 first-round NHL Draft pick Chaz Lucius to the Winterhawks. Lucius, 19, will report to Portland following the team's current road swing.

DETAILS ⤵️— Portland Winterhawks (@pdxwinterhawks) January 9, 2023

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