Mark Jankowski Bio
Mark Jankowski is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is a centre for the Carolina Hurricanes of the National Hockey League (NHL). Jankowski was selected in the first round, 21st overall, at the 2012 NHL entry draft by the Calgary Flames. He is the highest selected Canadian high school player in draft history, having played for Stanstead College for two seasons leading to the draft.
Early Life and Background
Mark Jankowski was born on September 13, 1994, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in Dundas, Ontario, where he developed a passion for hockey at a young age. Jankowski’s family has a rich hockey heritage; his grandfather, Lou, played professionally in the NHL, and his granduncle, Red Kelly, is a Hockey Hall of Famer. This familial connection to the sport likely influenced Jankowski’s early exposure and commitment to hockey. Jankowski played for the St. Catharines Minor Midget AAA Falcons in the Ontario Minor Hockey Association, where he was recognized as a top scorer. Despite his talent, he went unselected in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) midget draft due to concerns about his size at the time. Instead, he opted to attend Stanstead College, a prep school in Quebec, where he excelled in hockey over two seasons.
Path to Hockey
During his time at Stanstead College, Mark Jankowski quickly gained height and skill, which attracted the attention of scouts. He scored 31 goals and 73 points in his first season and improved to 53 goals and 93 points in his second season. His impressive performance led to his commitment to play college hockey for the Providence Friars, despite interest from other prestigious programs. Jankowski was eventually selected in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft by the Calgary Flames as the 21st overall pick, making him the highest-ever draft pick from a Canadian high school. This selection was met with some skepticism, but the Flames’ management believed in his potential and talent.
Mark Jankowski Career
Early Career (2016–2020)
Mark Jankowski began his professional career on March 30, 2016, when he signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Calgary Flames. He played the remainder of the 2015–16 season with the Flames’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Stockton Heat. Jankowski made his NHL debut on November 28, 2016, against the New York Islanders. He scored his first NHL goal on November 9, 2017, in a game against the Detroit Red Wings. In the 2017-18 season, Jankowski had a breakout performance, recording his first four-goal game in a victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. However, his subsequent seasons with the Flames were less fruitful, culminating in a disappointing 2019-20 season where he scored only 5 goals in 56 games.
Breakthrough (2020–Present)
After not receiving a qualifying offer from the Flames, Jankowski signed a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 9, 2020. He later joined the New Jersey Devils on a professional tryout contract but ultimately began the 2021-22 season with the Rochester Americans of the AHL. Following a strong start with the Americans, he was signed by the Buffalo Sabres. Jankowski continued to navigate his career, signing a one-year, two-way contract with the Nashville Predators in July 2022. On March 8, 2024, he signed a two-year contract extension with the Predators. His journey took another turn when he was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes on March 7, 2025, where he made an immediate impact by scoring two goals in his debut.
Notable Works and Milestones
Mark Jankowski’s career is marked by significant milestones, including being the highest selected Canadian high school player in NHL draft history. His four-goal game with the Flames and his successful debut with the Hurricanes highlight his capabilities as a player.
Mark Jankowski Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Mark Jankowski has been recognized for his contributions to the sport, although specific award nominations are not detailed in the available information.
Mark Jankowski Awards Won
Mark Jankowski’s professional career has not been highlighted by major awards won, but his achievements on the ice, including his draft position and performance milestones, reflect his talent and dedication to the game.
Mark Jankowski Family
Mark Jankowski comes from a hockey family. His grandfather, Lou, played in the NHL, and his father, Len, played college hockey at Cornell University. His younger brother, David, also pursued hockey and signed an amateur tryout contract with the Calgary Flames in 2018.
Personal Life
While specific details about Mark Jankowski’s personal life are limited, his family background in hockey has played a significant role in shaping his career. His uncle, Ryan, serves as an assistant general manager with the Seattle Kraken, further emphasizing the family’s deep ties to the sport.
