Mason Appleton was signed by the Winnipeg Jets this off-season after playing two seasons with Michigan State. He is already 21 which probably explains why he was signed now and not in a year or two. He was drafted as an over-ager out of the USHL where he was under a point-per-game. He did show potential this year with improvement in his second season in the NCAA. The Jets have already gotten some value out of their sixth round pick. Appleton will most likely start the season in the AHL with the Manitoba Moose.
Tim: I was a little surprised to see Appleton go pro this off-season. He has had a steady college career and while he wasn't dominant, he did lead his team in goals, assists and points last year. His skating could use a little bit of work, but he's definitely a player with a strong shot of making the show -even if it is in a depth role.
Brian: Didn't think Mason Appleton would be going pro this year after just being named captain of his college team. However, stranger things have happened and I'm excited to see what he can do. Appleton has been my dark horse pick to make a decent NHL impact, and going pro this year is the first step towards making that happen.
Andy: After 2 seasons in college, Appleton turns pro after signing his entry level deal with the Jets. Banking on his improved play and point total in his second college year to his first, Appleton will look to put that growth curve to good use as he begins his professional hockey career with the Manitoba Moose.
