Kyle Connor

Connor was born on December 9, 1996, in Clinton Township, Michigan,{{cite web |title=Kyle Connor |url=https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/177671/kyle-connor |publisher=Elite Prospects |access-date=September 5, 2023}} to parents Joe and Kathy.{{cite web |last1=Lomon |first1=Chris |title=ANNUAL TRIPS DEEPEN BOTH FAMILY AND TEAM BOND |url=https://www.nhlpa.com/news/1-21773/annual-trips-deepen-both-family-and-team-bond |publisher=NHLPA |access-date=September 7, 2023 |date=February 20, 2020}} While growing up alongside three other siblings,{{cite web |last1=Dixon |first1=Kyle |title="A SCORING CHANCE WAITING TO HAPPEN" |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/longform/inside-kyle-connors-evolution-one-nhls-best-finishers/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=September 7, 2023}} Connor began playing youth hockey in the Belle Tire organization in Metro Detroit. He also played basketball, baseball, and football through junior high and high school.{{cite web |last1=Burns |first1=Mark J. |title=Phantom Flash On Fast Track To The Big Time |url=https://www.usahockeymagazine.com/article/2015-01/phantom-flash-fast-track-big-time |publisher=USA Hockey Magazine |access-date=September 7, 2023 |date=January 2015}}

Connor played minor ice hockey for Detroit Belle Tire and participated in the 2009 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament with them.{{cite web|url=https://www.publicationsports.com/ressources/files/439/Joueurs_Pro.pdf|title=Pee-Wee players who have reached NHL or WHA|year=2018|website=Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament|access-date=2019-01-02|archive-date=March 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306085544/https://www.publicationsports.com/ressources/files/439/Joueurs_Pro.pdf|url-status=dead}}

Connor joined the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL during the 2012–13 season. During the 2013–14 season, Connor recorded 31 goals and 43 assists, in 56 games, setting a Phantoms franchise record for most points in a season with 74 points. His outstanding play was recognized when he was named to the 2013–14 USHL First All-Star Team.{{cite web | url = http://www.youngstownphantoms.com/kyle-connor-named-first-team-ushl-all-star/ | title = Kyle Kevin Connor named First Team USHL All-Star | publisher = Youngstown Phantoms | date = April 1, 2014 | accessdate = June 18, 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150626150604/http://www.youngstownphantoms.com/kyle-connor-named-first-team-ushl-all-star/ | archive-date = June 26, 2015 | url-status = dead }}

During the 2014–15 season, Connor led the league in scoring, recording 34 goals and 46 assists, in 56 regular season games. He broke the Phantoms' franchise record for points in a season, with 80 points. He led the USHL with nine game-winning goals. Following an outstanding season, he was named to the 2014–15 USHL First All-Star Team and was also named the USHL Forward of the Year and Player of the Year.{{cite web | url = http://www.ushl.com/news_article/show/519354?referrer_id=1348814 | title = Connor named USHL Player of the Year | website = United States Hockey League | date = May 2, 2015 | accessdate = June 18, 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160305010234/http://www.ushl.com/news_article/show/519354?referrer_id=1348814 | archive-date = March 5, 2016 | url-status = dead }}

He committed to play for the Michigan Wolverines for the 2015–16 season.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/062615aab.html | title = Werenski, Incoming Freshman Connor Selected in 2015 NHL Draft | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = June 26, 2015 | accessdate = June 26, 2015}}{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/091115aab.html | title = Freshman Focus with Kyle Connor | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = September 11, 2015 | accessdate = September 11, 2015}} Connor was named the Big Ten First Star of the Week for the week ending October 20, 2015. In the season opener on October 16, Connor recorded two goals and an assist in his debut, the most points by a Michigan freshman in his debut since Jason Ryznar had three points (one goal and two assists) in his debut in the Cold War at Spartan Stadium on October 6, 2001. On October 18, he scored the game-winning goal against Mercyhurst.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/102015aaa.html | title = Connor, Selman Named Big Ten First and Third Stars of the Week | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = October 20, 2015 | accessdate = October 20, 2015}} Connor was named the Big Ten First Star of the Week for the week ending December 15, 2015. He recorded five goals and one assist in a split weekend series against Minnesota. On December 11, Connor recorded his first career hat-trick, becoming the first Michigan freshman to record a hat-trick in a game since Michael Woodford in 2001.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/recaps/121115aaa.html | title = Connor's Hat Trick Leads U-M to Romp over Minnesota | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = December 11, 2015 | accessdate = December 11, 2015}}{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/121515aaa.html | title = Connor Named Big Ten First Star of the Week | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = December 15, 2015 | accessdate = December 15, 2015}} Connor was named to the GLI-all-tournament team, and was named MVP at the 2015 Great Lakes Invitational.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/recaps/123015aae.html | title = Wolverines Ice Huskies for Record 17th Great Lakes Invitational Title | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = December 30, 2015 | accessdate = December 30, 2015}} Connor was named the Hockey Commissioners' Association (HCA) National Rookie of the Month for December 2015. Connor led the nation with seven goals and 13 points in six games during the month of December, averaging 2.17 points per game in that span. He registered at least one point in all six games, including four multi-point efforts. His overall average of 1.47 points per game this season is the most by a Michigan freshman since the 1979–80 season.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/010616aaa.html | title = Connor Named HCA National Rookie of the Month for December | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = January 6, 2016 | accessdate = January 6, 2016}}

Connor was named the Big Ten Second Star of the Week for the week ending January 12, 2016. During that time he recorded three goals and three assists, including a career-best five points on January 8, against Michigan State.{{cite web| url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/011216aaa.html | title = Compher, Connor Named Big Ten's Top Performers of the Week | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = January 12, 2016 | accessdate = January 12, 2016}} Connor was named the Big Ten Second Star of the Week for the week ending February 2, 2016. During that time he recorded two goals and four assists in two games against Penn State. On January 28, Connor matched a career-high with five points, including the game-winning goal. By reaching 20 goals in 22 games, he and teammate Tyler Motte were the fastest Michigan players to reach 20 goals since Kevin Porter had 20 goals in 21 games during the 2007–08 season. Connor became the first Michigan freshman to score 20 goals since Jeff Tambellini scored 26 goals during the 2002–03 season.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/020216aaa.html | title = Motte, Connor Tabbed Big Ten First and Second Stars | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = February 2, 2016 | accessdate = February 2, 2016}} Connor was named the HCA National Rookie of the Month for the month of January. He ranked second nationally with 1.33 goals, 1.50 assists, and 2.83 points per game last month, trailing only linemates Motte in goals and points and J. T. Compher in assists.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/020316aaa.html | title = Motte, Connor Named HCA National Player and Rookie of the Month | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = February 3, 2016 | accessdate = February 3, 2016}} Connor was named the Big Ten First Star of the Week for the week ending February 23, 2016. He joined Tyler Motte as the only player in the Big Ten to earn First Star of the Week honors three times this season. Connor is the fifth Michigan freshman ever to reach the 50-point mark, and the first since current assistant coach Brian Wiseman reached the mark in 1990–91.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/022316aad.html | title = Connor Tabbed Big Ten First Star of the Week | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = February 23, 2016 | accessdate = February 23, 2016}}

Connor was named the Big Ten Second Star of the Week for the week ending March 1, 2016. Connor is in the midst of a 23-game point streak, the longest by a Michigan player since Mike Knuble had points in 21 straight games during the 1994–95 season.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/030116aaa.html | title = Connor Named Big Ten Second Star of the Week | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 1, 2016 | accessdate = March 1, 2016}} He is the first Michigan player to reach 60 points since Kevin Porter recorded 63 points in 2007–08, and the first Michigan freshman to reach the 30-goal mark since Danny Felsner had 30 goals in 1988–89. Connor is also the first freshman in college hockey to record 30 goals since Thomas Vanek in 2002–03. Connor was named the Big Ten First Star of the Week for the week ending March 15. Connor extended his Red Berenson-era (since 1984) Michigan record point streak to 23 games with four goals in two wins against Penn State.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/031516aaa.html | title = Connor, Selman Receive Big Ten Weekly Honors | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 15, 2016 | accessdate = March 15, 2016}}

Following an outstanding freshman season with the Wolverines, Connor was named the Big Ten Conference ice hockey Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year. He was also named to both the Big Ten All-Freshman Team and the All-Big Ten First Team. He was also Big Ten Scoring Champion, recording 30 goals, and 31 assists in 34 games.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/031416aab.html | title = Connor, Berenson Head List of All-Big Ten Award Winners | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 14, 2016 | accessdate = March 14, 2016}} He was also named the NCAA Ice Hockey National Rookie of the Year and an AHCA First Team All-American.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/040816aac.html | title = Four Icers Earn All-America Honors; Connor Named Top Rookie | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = April 8, 2016 | accessdate = April 8, 2016}} Connor was runner-up for the Hobey Baker Award, losing to Jimmy Vesey.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/031616aab.html | title = Compher, Connor, Motte Named Top 10 Finalists for Hobey Baker Award | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 16, 2016 | accessdate = March 16, 2016}}{{cite web | url = http://www.mlive.com/wolverines/index.ssf/2016/04/michigans_kyle_connor_named_ru.html | title = Michigan's Kyle Connor named runner-up for Hobey Baker Award | publisher = MLive | first = Matt | last = Wenzel | date = April 8, 2016 | accessdate = April 8, 2016}} During the quarterfinals of the 2016 Big Ten men's ice hockey tournament, Connor scored four goals, breaking the record for most goals in a single Big Ten Tournament game. Connor became the first Michigan player to score four goals in a game since Kevin Porter on March 28, 2008.{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/recaps/031816aab.html | title = Connor Scores Four to Lead U-M to B1G Championship Game | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 18, 2016 | accessdate = March 18, 2016}}{{cite web | url = http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/big10/sports/m-hockey/auto_pdf/2015-16/misc_non_event/2016NotesGame3.pdf | title = 2016 Big Ten Men's Ice Hockey Tournament Game 3 Notes | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 18, 2016 | accessdate = March 18, 2016 | archive-date = March 27, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160327041540/http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/big10/sports/m-hockey/auto_pdf/2015-16/misc_non_event/2016NotesGame3.pdf | url-status = dead }} During the championship game, Connor and teammate Zach Werenski tied the record for most assists in the Big Ten tournament championship game with three assists. Connor and Werenski also tied the record for most points in a championship game with four points. Connor holds the record for most goals in a single Big Ten tournament with five goals, while Connor and teammate J. T. Compher are tied for the most points in a single Big Ten tournament with eight points. He was named the Big Ten Tournament Most Outstanding Player and named to the Big Ten All-Tournament Team.{{cite web | url = http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/big10/sports/m-hockey/auto_pdf/2015-16/misc_non_event/2016AllTournamentTeam.pdf | title = 2016 All-Tournament Team | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 19, 2016 | accessdate = March 19, 2016 | archive-date = April 1, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160401183713/http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/big10/sports/m-hockey/auto_pdf/2015-16/misc_non_event/2016AllTournamentTeam.pdf | url-status = dead }}{{cite web | url = http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/big10/sports/w-gym/auto_pdf/2015-16/misc_non_event/2016NotesGame5.pdf | title = 2016 Big Ten Men's Ice Hockey Tournament Game 5 Notes | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 19, 2016 | accessdate = March 19, 2016 | archive-date = April 2, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160402041019/http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/big10/sports/w-gym/auto_pdf/2015-16/misc_non_event/2016NotesGame5.pdf | url-status = dead }}{{cite web | url = http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/recaps/031916aae.html | title = Michigan Rallies Past Minnesota to Win B1G Tournament | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = MGoBlue.com | date = March 19, 2016 | accessdate = March 19, 2016}} He was also a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award.{{cite web | url = http://www.hobeybaker.com/news/item/2016-hattrick | title = 2016 Hobey Hat Trick Announced | publisher = Hobey Baker Award | date = March 31, 2016 | accessdate = March 31, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160403031420/http://www.hobeybaker.com/news/item/2016-hattrick | archive-date = April 3, 2016 | url-status = dead }}

On April 11, 2016, Connor left the University of Michigan and signed a three-year, two-way contract with the Winnipeg Jets worth an average annual value of $1.775 million.{{cite web |title=Jets sign Kyle Connor |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-sign-kyle-connor/c-878281 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=April 11, 2016}} He made his NHL debut on October 13, playing alongside Mathieu Perreault and fellow rookie Patrik Laine.{{cite web |last1=Campbell |first1=Tim |title=Patrik Laine makes own mark in Jets debut |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/patrik-laine-makes-own-mark-in-jets-debut/c-282650130 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 14, 2016}} He recorded his first career NHL point that night with an assist on Laine's third-period goal.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Laine scores in comeback win over Hurricanes |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/laine-scores-in-comeback-win-over-hurricanes/c-282649024 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 14, 2016}} However, after Laine suffered an injury in the season opener, Connor and Perreault gained Drew Stafford as their second line right winger.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Little out indefinitely with lower-body injury |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/little-out-indefinitely-with-lower-body-injury/c-282672642 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 14, 2016}} Once Laine returned, Connor was shifted down to the fourth line with Alexander Burmistrov and Brandon Tanev.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Laine scores first hat trick as Jets rally to win |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/laine-scores-first-hat-trick-as-jets-rally-to-win/c-282854706 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 20, 2016}} He recorded his first career NHL goal on October 27, 2016, in a 4–1 win over the Dallas Stars.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Laine scores twice as Jets beat Stars |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/laine-scores-twice-as-jets-beat-stars/c-283155318 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 27, 2016}} This would prove to be his last goal before suffering a head injury during a game against the Los Angeles Kings on November 13. Connor was subsequently placed on injured reserve and the Jets called up Chase De Leo from their American Hockey League affiliate, the Manitoba Moose.{{cite web |last1=Hobson |first1=Russ |title=Winnipeg Jets injury list grows as team calls up Chase De Leo from Manitoba Moose |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/3066079/winnipeg-jets-injury-list-grows-as-team-calls-up-chase-de-leo-from-manitoba-moose/ |publisher=Global News |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=November 14, 2016}} After missing five games to recover, Connor returned to the Jets' lineup on November 25.{{cite web |title=Jets re-assign De Leo to Manitoba Moose |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-re-assign-de-leo/c-284069300 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=November 25, 2016}} His return was shortlived however as he was re-assigned to the Moose on December 9 after continuing to go pointless.{{cite web |title=Jets re-assign Kyle Connor to Moose |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-re-assign-kyle-connor-to-moose/c-284540124 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=December 9, 2016}}

Connor made an immediate impact upon joining the Moose as he tallied his first AHL assist on Jack Roslovic's third period-goal in his AHL debut.{{cite web |title=Moose host Monsters in afternoon tilt |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/moose-host-monsters-afternoon-tilt/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=December 10, 2016}} The following game, Connor recorded his first AHL goal as the Moose fell 2–1 to the Cleveland Monsters.{{cite web |last1=Hobson |first1=Russ |title=Kyle Connor scores first AHL goal but Manitoba Moose end homestand with loss to Cleveland Monsters |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/3119646/kyle-connor-scores-first-ahl-goal-but-manitoba-moose-end-homestand-with-loss-to-cleveland-monsters/ |publisher=Global News |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=December 10, 2016}} Although he had an uptick in scoring, Connor did not have regular linemates as he moved up and down the lineup.{{cite news |title=Connor finds his groove with Moose |url=https://winnipegsun.com/2016/12/15/connor-finds-his-groove-with-moose |access-date=August 26, 2023 |publisher=Winnipeg Sun |date=December 15, 2016 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230826002727/https://winnipegsun.com/2016/12/15/connor-finds-his-groove-with-moose |archive-date=August 26, 2023}} During the month of February, Connor tallied 2.57 shots per game and earned 13 points, including three multi-goal games.{{cite web |title=BY THE NUMBERS: Kyle Connor |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/numbers-kyle-connor/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=March 2, 2017}} This continued into March and he was recognized as the CCM/AHL Player of the Week after posting eight points over four games.{{cite web |title=Kyle Connor named CCM/AHL Player of the Week |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/connor-pow/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=March 6, 2017}} Throughout late February to April, Connor recorded 15 goals and nine assists for 24 points over 17 games. His efforts were recognised by the Jets and he earned his first call-up since being assigned to the Moose on April 3.{{cite web |title=Jets recall Connor and Roslovic |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/jets-recall-connor-roslovic/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=April 3, 2017}} Upon being recalled, Connor scored the game-tying goal in the Jets' final game of the regular season to lift the team 2–1 over the Nashville Predators. By winning the game, the Jets secured the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference for the 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs.{{cite web |last1=Billeck |first1=Scott |title=Predators finish as second wild card in West |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nashville-predators-winnipeg-jets-game-recap/c-288585270 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=April 8, 2017}} Connor was re-assigned to the Moose the next day.{{cite web |title=Jets reassign Connor and Nogier to Moose |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/jets-reassign-connor-nogier-moose/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=April 9, 2017}} He finished the season third among league rookies with 25 goals and second on the team with 44 points. In recognition of his efforts, Connor received the Moose's Most Valuable Player award, Rookie of the Year award, and the Three Stars Award.{{cite web |title=Kyle Connor assigned to Moose |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/connor-assigned-oct317/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 3, 2017}}

Before the Winnipeg Jets finalized their 2017–18 roster, Connor was assigned to the Manitoba Moose to begin the season. He tallied three goals and two assists over four games with the Moose before being recalled to the NHL on October 16 after Perreault suffered an injury.{{cite web |title=Jets recall Kyle Connor from Manitoba Moose |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-recall-kyle-connor-from-manitoba-moose/c-291973628 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 16, 2017}} He reunited with Laine on the Jets' second line, along with Bryan Little, for his season debut against the Columbus Blue Jackets on October 16.{{cite web |last1=Billeck |first1=Scott |title=Connor gets chance in Jets' top six with injury to Perreault |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-jets-kyle-connor-expected-to-make-season-debut-tuesday/c-291980286 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 16, 2017}} However, during the game, Connor was moved onto a line with Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler who both assisted on Connor's first goal of the season.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets fall to Columbus 5-2, win streak snapped at three |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-fall-to-columbus-5-2-win-streak-snapped-at-three/c-292032586 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 17, 2017}} The trio remained together for the following game and they combined for nine points in the Jets' 7–1 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Wheeler scores second career hat trick in 7-1 Jets win over Pittsburgh |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/wheeler-scores-second-career-hat-trick-in-7-1-jets-win-over-pittsburgh/c-292420426 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 25, 2023 |date=October 29, 2017}} Within his first six games with the Jets, Connor tallied two goals and three assists.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Connor, Ehlers score to help Jets to second straight win over Wild |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/connor-ehlers-score-to-help-jets-to-second-straight-win-over-wild/c-292488480 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=October 31, 2017}} He remained on a line with Scheifele and Wheeler throughout the first half of the season and recorded nine goals and eight assists while averaging 17:50 in ice time.{{cite web |last1=Morreale |first1=Mike G. |title=Rookie watch: Connor learning what it takes to remain with Jets |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-rookie-kyle-connor-making-impact/c-293640704 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=December 4, 2017}} Connor missed his first game with the Jets on December 3 due to a lower-body injury but returned the following game.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=GAME DAY: Jets make first visit to Little Caesars Arena |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/game-day-jets-make-first-visit-to-little-caesars-arena/c-293671344 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=December 4, 2017}} Following Scheifele's injury in mid-December, Connor and Wheeler gained Laine as their new linemate.{{cite web |last1=Campbell |first1=Tim |title=Jets look to veterans to fill Scheifele's absence |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-ready-to-make-change-without-scheifele/c-294430646 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=December 28, 2017}} The trio remained together for 16 games until Scheifele returned on February 9. Despite the changing linemates, Connor had amassed 18 goals and 17 assists through his first 51 games of the season. He ranked fifth on the team in scoring and seventh among NHL rookies.{{cite web |last1=Esquivel |first1=Tyler |title=Connor takes flight as one of NHL's top rookies |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/connor-takes-flight-as-one-of-nhls-top-rookies/c-295969482 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=February 14, 2018}} His success continued through March and he quickly ranked second among rookies in scoring with 28 goals.{{cite web |last1=Campbell |first1=Tim |title=Connor getting hot at right time for surging Jets |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-rookie-kyle-connor-hitting-stride-down-stretch/c-297269438 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=March 24, 2018}} While climbing the ranks, Connor also became the second rookie in NHL history to score two regular-season overtime goals in consecutive games.{{cite web |last1=Billeck |first1=Scott |title=Jets top Ducks in OT, set their points record |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/anaheim-ducks-winnipeg-jets-game-recap/c-297260988 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=March 24, 2018}} On March 25, Connor recorded a goal and two assists to help the Jets clinch a spot in the 2018 Stanley Cup playoffs.{{cite web |last1=Billeck |first1=Scott |title=Jets clinch playoff berth with shootout win against Predators |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nashville-predators-winnipeg-jets-game-recap/c-297321328 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=March 25, 2018}} Following this game, Connor tied with Brock Boeser for the rookie goal-scoring lead and ranked fifth in the NHL with 50 points. He was subsequently recognized by the NHL with their Third Star of the Week honor.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Third Star honour a reward for Connor's hard work |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/third-star-honour-a-reward-for-connors-hard-work/c-297341722 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=March 26, 2018}} On April 3, Connor scored another overtime winner and added two assists to help the Jets become the 80th team in NHL history to win 50 games in a season.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Connor scores overtime winner as Jets reach 50 wins |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/connor-scores-overtime-winner-as-jets-reach-50-wins/c-297634036 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=April 3, 2018}} He finished out the 2017–18 season scoring nine goals through his final 13 games.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Not winning Calder Trophy "won't change" Connor's game |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/not-winning-calder-trophy-wont-change-connors-game/c-298217350 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=April 23, 2018}} Connor finished his rookie season as the NHL's leading rookie goal scorer with 31 goals. He also added 26 assists for 57 points through 76 games.{{cite news |last1=Owen |first1=Judy |title=Kyle Connor to make playoff debut after stellar season with Jets |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/article-kyle-connor-to-make-playoff-debut-after-stellar-season-with-jets/ |access-date=August 28, 2023 |publisher=The Globe and Mail |date=April 8, 2018}} However, he was ultimately left off the ballot for the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's top rookie.

Connor was one of eight Jets players to make their NHL postseason debut in Game 1 of the Western Conference First Round against the Minnesota Wild.{{cite web |last1=Campbell |first1=Tim |title=From Thrashers to Jets, players savor first playoff win |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/thrashers-to-jets-players-savor-first-playoff-win/c-297917054 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=April 12, 2018}} During their series, Connor tallied two assists in five games as the Jets beat the Wild and moved on to the second round against the Nashville Predators. As a result of his slow start, head coach Paul Maurice moved him onto a line with Paul Stastny and Patrik Laine, with Nikolaj Ehlers replacing him on the top line.{{cite web |last1=Campbell |first1=Tim |title=Connor steps up for Jets against Predators in Game 5 |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/kyle-connor-steps-up-for-jets-against-predators-in-game-5/c-298483714 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 29, 2023 |date=May 6, 2018}} After playing Games 3 and 4 on the second line, Connor was returned to the Jets' top line for Game 5.{{cite web |last1=Fox |first1=Luke |title=Winnipeg Jets rookie Kyle Connor finally erupts in playoffs |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/winnipeg-jets-rookie-kyle-connor-finally-erupts-playoffs/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=August 29, 2023 |date=May 6, 2018}} In his first game back on the top line, Connor set a franchise record for most points by a Jets rookie in a single postseason game. He tallied his first two playoff goals and added an assist to lift the Jets 6–2 over the Nashville Predators.{{cite web |last1=Vocaturo |first1=Nadia |title=PLAYOFF PERFORMER OF THE NIGHT: KYLE CONNOR |url=https://www.nhlpa.com/news/1-15099/playoff-performer-of-the-night-kyle-connor |publisher=NHLPA |access-date=August 28, 2023 |date=May 7, 2018}} Wheeler and Connor each recorded two assists to help the Jets qualify for the Western Conference Final against the Vegas Golden Knights.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets eliminate Predators with Game 7 win in Nashville |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-eliminate-predators-with-game-7-win-in-nashville/c-298561824 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 29, 2023 |date=May 10, 2018}} Connor entered the Western Conference final with two goals and four assists while his line had combined 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points.{{cite web |last1=Billeck |first1=Scott |title=Jets' road work helps pave way to conference final |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/why-winnipeg-jets-advanced-to-western-conference-final/c-298567542 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 29, 2023 |date=May 11, 2018}} However, the trio only combined for three goals during the series as the Jets fell to the Golden Knights in five games.{{cite web |last1=Billeck |first1=Scott |title=Grind gets to Jets in Western Conference Final |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/why-winnipeg-jets-were-eliminated/c-298717374 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 29, 2023 |date=May 21, 2018}} Connor ranked fourth in Calder Memorial Trophy voting, which was ultimately won by New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets come up just short at 2018 NHL Awards |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-come-up-just-short-at-2018-nhl-awards/c-299152266 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 29, 2023 |date=June 20, 2018}}

Following their lengthy playoff run, Connor returned to the Jets for their 2018–19 season and was reunited with Scheifele and Wheeler. In their first game back together, Connor recorded a goal and an assist while the trio combined for six points against the St. Louis Blues.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Connor impresses early on |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/connor-impresses-early-on/c-300682148 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 29, 2023 |date=October 5, 2018}} From there, he produced nearly a point per game and quickly accumulated four goals four assists to rank second on the team with eight points through nine games.{{cite web |last1=Weekes |first1=Kevin |title=Pluses, minuses for Maple Leafs-Jets, Lightning-Avalanche |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pluses-minuses-for-toronto-winnipeg-tampa-bay-colorado-kevin-weekes/c-301236894 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=August 29, 2023 |date=October 24, 2018}} The trio lasted until mid-October when Connor was moved to Winnipeg's second line with Bryan Little and Mathieu Perreault.{{cite web |last1=Ates |first1=Murat |title=Kyle Connor is quietly proving he can drive a line without Blake Wheeler and Mark Scheifele |url=https://theathletic.com/652149/2018/11/13/kyle-connor-is-quietly-proving-he-can-drive-a-line-without-blake-wheeler-and-mark-scheifele/ |publisher=The Athletic |access-date=September 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230829235727/https://theathletic.com/652149/2018/11/13/kyle-connor-is-quietly-proving-he-can-drive-a-line-without-blake-wheeler-and-mark-scheifele/ |archive-date=August 29, 2023 |date=November 13, 2018}} He was shortly thereafter reunited with Laine and the two reignited their chemistry together. On November 24, he recorded four assists while Laine tallied five goals against the St. Louis Blues.{{cite web |last1=Ates |first1=Murat |title=Breaking down a five-goal night: How Patrik Laine took sole possession of the NHL goal-scoring lead |url=https://theathletic.com/673799/2018/11/25/breaking-down-a-five-goal-night-how-patrik-laine-took-sole-possession-of-the-nhl-goal-scoring-lead/ |publisher=The Athletic |access-date=September 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230906000742/https://theathletic.com/673799/2018/11/25/breaking-down-a-five-goal-night-how-patrik-laine-took-sole-possession-of-the-nhl-goal-scoring-lead/ |archive-date=September 6, 2023 |date=November 25, 2018}} Connor credited both Laine and Little to his early season offensive output, 13 goals and 15 assists through 31 games.{{cite news |last1=Bell |first1=Jason |title=Connor enjoys life alongside linemate Little |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2018/12/13/connor-enjoying-life-with-linemate-little |access-date=September 5, 2023 |publisher=Winnipeg Free Press |date=December 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230829234251/https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2018/12/13/connor-enjoying-life-with-linemate-little |archive-date=August 29, 2023}} He remained on the second line before both Ehlers and Dustin Byfuglien suffered injuries in January. As such, Connor was promoted back to the Jets' top line with Scheifele and Wheeler.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=With Ehlers out, Roslovic moves to the wing with Little and Laine |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/with-ehlers-out-roslovic-moves-to-the-wing-with-little-and-laine/c-303589292 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=January 5, 2019}} Connor set numerous personal records in January, including scoring his 100th career point on January 19 against the Dallas Stars.{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Jeff |title=Bishop, Stars top Jets to end skid |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-jets-dallas-stars-game-recap/c-304053374 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=January 19, 2019}} He also set a new career high in ice time with 24:52 against the Minnesota Wild on January 10.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=By the Numbers: Kyle Connor |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/by-the-numbers-kyle-connor/c-307678640 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=June 3, 2019}} Through the teams' first 17 games of 2019, Connor had tallied nine goals and six assists for 15 points.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=GAME DAY: Jets vs Rangers |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/game-day-jets-vs-rangers/c-304728882 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=February 11, 2019}} At the end of February, head coach Paul Maurice moved Laine to the Jets' top line and replaced him with Kevin Hayes and Nikolaj Ehlers on the second line with Connor.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Little moves to the wing as Jets prepare to host Predators |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/little-moves-to-the-wing-as-jets-prepare-to-host-predators/c-305330392 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=February 28, 2019}} Although Connor played alongside the two during the Jets' road trip,{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=GAME DAY: Jets at Capitals |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/game-day-jets-at-capitals/c-305635778 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=March 9, 2019}} he was shortly thereafter reunited with Laine.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=GAME DAY: Jets vs Predators |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/game-day-jets-vs-predators/c-306044228 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=March 22, 2019}} On March 23, Connor scored his first career NHL hat-trick, and added an assist, in a 5–0 win over the Nashville Predators. In doing so, he helped the Jets clinch a spot in the 2019 Stanley Cup playoffs.{{cite web |last1=Owen |first1=Judy |title=Jets blank Predators to clinch playoff spot |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/nhl-nashville-winnipeg-recap-march-23-1.5069271 |publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=March 23, 2019}} He also became the fifth player in franchise history to record multiple 30-goal seasons and the second player to do so in his first two full seasons. As a result, Connor was recognized as the NHL's First Star of the Week for the week ending on March 24.{{cite web |title=Kyle Connor named NHL's First Star of the week |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/kyle-connor-named-nhls-first-star-of-the-week/c-306113636 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=March 25, 2019}} Connor finished the 2018–19 season with a career-high 34 goals and 32 assists for 66 points. During the playoffs, Connor added three goals and two assists for five points through six games as the Jets fell to the St. Louis Blues.

File:Kyle Connor back.png

As he had concluded his entry-level contract, Connor and the Jets began engaging in contract negotiations ahead of the 2019–20 season. As the negotiations bled into training camp, Connor began skating at the University of Michigan prior to a deal being signed.{{cite web |last1=Wiebe |first1=Ken |title=The road to new deals for Patrik Laine and Kyle Connor |url=https://theathletic.com/1187519/2019/09/06/the-road-to-new-deals-for-patrik-laine-and-kyle-connor/ |publisher=The Athletic |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=September 6, 2019}} On September 28, after missing most of the preseason, Connor signed a seven-year, $50 million contract extension to remain with the Jets.{{cite web |title=Connor agrees to seven-year, near $50 million contract with Jets |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/kyle-connor-jets-agree-to-seven-year-contract/c-308096840 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=September 29, 2019}} Upon joining the Jets for their season opener against the New York Rangers, Connor was reunited with Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler on the top line.{{cite web |title=Little out for Jets season opener with concussion |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-jets-bryan-little-out-with-concussion/c-309635442 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=October 1, 2019}} Connor began the season with two points through six games but ranked second in the league with 28 shots on net.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Thomas' Five Storylines - PIT @ WPG |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/thomas-five-storylines-pit-wpg-310064186 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=October 13, 2019}} Through the first four games of November, Connor accumulated two goals and five assists for seven points.{{cite web |last1=Vickers |first1=Aaron |title=Stars at Jets preview |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/dallas-stars-winnipeg-jets-game-preview-311097384 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=November 9, 2019}} He continued to improve as the month continued and led the team in scoring with three goals and eight assists for 11 points through nine games.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=GAMEDAY: Jets at Stars |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/gameday-jets-at-stars-311565534 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=November 20, 2019}} On November 19, Connor played in his 200th career NHL game against the Nashville Predators.{{cite web |last1=Stanley |first1=Robby |title=Jets at Predators preview |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-jets-nashville-predators-game-preview-311496852 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=November 19, 2019}} While playing alongside Scheifele and Laine, Connor helped the Jets improve to a winning 17–10–1 record through the start of December.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets enjoy offensive outburst in divisional win over Dallas |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-enjoy-offensive-outburst-in-divisional-win-over-dallas-312146312 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=December 4, 2019}} On December 31, 2019, Connor recorded his second career NHL hat trick in a 7–4 win against the Colorado Avalanche. This gave him six goals over his past four games and 20 goals on the season.{{cite web |last1=Sadowski |first1=Rick |title=Connor's hat trick lifts Jets past Avalanche |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-jets-colorado-avalanche-game-recap-313259620 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=January 1, 2020}} Although the Jets struggled to win home games, Connor continued to score through January and added seven goals and five assists over eight games.{{cite web |last1=Bauming |first1=Derrin |title=Hellebuyck sets Jets record with shutout against Canucks |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/vancouver-canucks-winnipeg-jets-game-recap-313925312 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=January 15, 2020}} In February, Connor set numerous career and franchise records for the Jets. After recording four points in a win over the Ottawa Senators and three in a victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, Connor became the third different player in Winnipeg Jets history to record at least three points on consecutive days.{{cite web |title=Merzlikins leads 3 Stars of the Week |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/elvis-merzlikins-kyle-connor-andrei-vasilevskiy-named-nhl-3-stars-314866574 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=February 10, 2020}} Following another game against the Senators, he also became the third player in Jets/Thrashers history with at least three consecutive 30-goal seasons.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=GAMEDAY: Jets at Flyers |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/gameday-jets-at-flyers-315356162 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=February 21, 2020}} In the final game of the month, Connor became the fourth player from the 2015 NHL draft to reach the score 100 goals in the NHL.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Special teams prove to be the difference in Jets loss to Oilers |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/special-teams-prove-to-be-the-difference-in-jets-loss-to-oilers-315736452 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=March 1, 2020}} When the NHL paused play due to the COVID-19 pandemic in March, Connor had already set new career highs in goals, assists, and points. He finished the shortened regular season with 38 goals and 35 assists to tie Scheifele for the team's scoring lead with 73 points.{{cite web |last1=Moore |first1=Kyle |title=Coronavirus: Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor is hopeful the NHL season is completed |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6805261/coronavirus-winnipeg-jets-kyle-connor-nhl/ |publisher=Global News |access-date=September 6, 2023 |date=April 10, 2020}} Beyond accumulating points, Connor also finished with the highest average ice-time among left wingers and ranked 10th in the NHL with 239 shots on goal.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=By the Numbers: Kyle Connor |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/by-the-numbers-kyle-connor-316492874 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=April 2, 2020}} A few months later, Connor and the Jets returned to play in the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs within the NHL's 'bubble' in Edmonton.{{cite web |last1=DePatie |first1=Mason |title=Winnipeg Jets excited to leave for Edmonton 'bubble' Sunday night |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/winnipeg-jets-excited-to-leave-for-edmonton-bubble-sunday-night-1.5039756 |publisher=CTV News |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=July 26, 2020}}

Connor achieved a Gordie Howe hat trick in a 4–1 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on November 22, 2024. He assisted on a Gabriel Vilardi goal in the second period and fought Sidney Crosby and scored an empty netter in the third.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Connor helps Jets defeat slumping Penguins |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-jets-pittsburgh-penguins-game-recap-november-22 |website=NHL.com |access-date=December 17, 2024 |date=November 22, 2024}}

{{MedalTableTop|name=|Kyle Connor 2016.png|200px|Connor with the United States at the IIHF World Championship in 2016}}

{{MedalCountry|{{USA}}}}

{{MedalSport|Ice hockey}}

{{MedalCompetition|Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament}}

{{MedalSilver | 2013 Piešťany | }}

{{MedalCompetition|World Junior A Challenge}}

{{MedalGold | 2013 Yarmouth|}}

{{MedalGold | 2014 Kindersley|}}

{{MedalCompetition|IIHF World U18 Championship}}

{{MedalGold | 2014 Finland | }}

{{MedalBottom}}

As an American citizen, Connor has represented the United States at both the junior and senior levels on the international stage. He first represented the United States at the 2012 Under-17 Five Nations Tournament. During the tournament, he scored four goals and added two assists to help Team USA clinch a gold medal.{{cite web |last1=Williams |first1=Doug |title=One Step at a Time, Kyle Connor is Achieving His Dreams |url=https://www.biosteelallamericangame.com/news_article/show/417616-one-step-at-a-time-kyle-connor-is-achieving-his-dreams|website=biosteelallamericangame.com|access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=September 8, 2014}} Following this, Connor was named to Team USA again to represent them at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament.{{cite web |title=USA Hockey names team for Ivan Hlinka Tournament |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/usa-hockey-names-team-for-ivan-hlinka-tournament/c-676487 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=July 3, 2013}} After earning a silver medal, Connor represented Team USA a second time in 2013 while playing in the 2013 World Junior A Challenge.{{cite web |title=Phantoms' Kyle Connor to Represent Team USA at World Junior A Challenge |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/phantoms-kyle-connor-to-represent-team-usa-at-world-junior-a-challenge/n-4694782 |publisher=Our Sports Central |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=October 18, 2013}} During the tournament, Connor recorded two goals and three assists in four games, including the game-winning goal in the championship game against Russia to clinch a gold medal.{{cite web |title=Russia 1 – United States 4 |url=https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/national-championships/men/world-junior-a/2013/schedule/game-stories/nov-10-rus-usa |publisher=Hockey Canada |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=2013}}

Connor again represented the United States twice in 2014 at two different international tournaments. He played in his first IIHF World U18 Championship in April with Team USA, helping them clinch a gold medal.{{cite web |title=Gold-Medal Game Recap: USA Wins Gold Over Czech Republic |url=https://www.usahockeyntdp.com/news_article/show/379997 |publisher=USA Hockey National Team Development Program |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=April 27, 2014}} Following this, he represented Team USA at the 2014 World Junior A Challenge, where he recorded one goal and one assist in four games to win a gold medal.{{cite web | url = http://www.ushl.com/news_article/show/446458?referrer_id=1348814-top-story | title = USHL Players to Represent United States at World Junior A Challenge | website = USHL | date = November 12, 2014 | accessdate = November 12, 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170406033252/http://www.ushl.com/news_article/show/446458?referrer_id=1348814-top-story | archive-date = April 6, 2017 | url-status = dead }}

While attending the University of Michigan, Connor was chosen to represent the United States men's national ice hockey team for the first time at the 2016 IIHF World Championship alongside UMich line-mates J. T. Compher and Tyler Motte.{{cite web |title='C-C-M Line' Named to USA Hockey World Championship Roster |url=http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/041216aac.html |publisher=University of Michigan |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=April 12, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170622194324/http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/041216aac.html |archive-date=June 22, 2017 }}

Connor became engaged to his longtime girlfriend Ally Petack in September 2023. {{cite news |last1=Brooks |first1=Carter |title=Summer Lovin' - Jets' Kyle Connor and Dylan Samberg Announce Engagements |newspaper=The Hockey News Winnipeg Jets News, Analysis and More |url=https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/winnipeg-jets/news/summer-lovin-jets-kyle-connor-and-dylan-samberg-announce-engagements |publisher=The Hockey News |access-date=September 5, 2023 |date=September 3, 2023}} The two welcomed their first child in March 2025.

{{reflist}}

• {{Ice hockey stats}}

{{s-start}}

{{s-ach}}

{{succession box | before = Nikolaj Ehlers | title = Winnipeg Jets first round draft pick | years = 2015 | after = Jack Roslovic}}

{{succession box | before = Jack Eichel | title = Tim Taylor Award | years = 2015–16 | after =Clayton Keller}}

{{succession box | before = Jack Eichel | title = NCAA Ice Hockey Scoring Champion | years = 2015–16 | after = Zach Aston-Reese / Mike Vecchione / Tyler Kelleher}}

{{succession box | before = Dylan Larkin | title=Big Ten Freshman of the Year | years = 2015–16| after=Trent Frederic}}

{{succession box | before = Jake Hildebrand | title=Big Ten Player of the Year | years = 2015–16| after=Tyler Sheehy}}

{{succession box | before = Zach Hyman | title=Big Ten Scoring Champion | years = 2015–16| after=Mason Jobst / Tyler Sheehy}}

{{succession box | before = Adam Wilcox | title=Big Ten Tournament MOP | years = 2016| after=Peyton Jones}}

{{succession box | before = Jaccob Slavin| title = Lady Byng Memorial Trophy | years = 2022 | after = Anže Kopitar}}

{{s-end}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Connor, Kyle}}

Category:1996 births

Category:Living people

Category:21st-century American sportsmen

Category:AHCA Division I men's ice hockey All-Americans

Category:American men's ice hockey left wingers

Category:Ice hockey players from Michigan

Category:Lady Byng Memorial Trophy winners

Category:Manitoba Moose players

Category:Michigan Wolverines men's ice hockey players

Category:NHL first-round draft picks

Category:People from Clinton, Macomb County, Michigan

Category:People from Oceana County, Michigan

Category:Sportspeople from Macomb County, Michigan

Category:Winnipeg Jets draft picks

Category:Winnipeg Jets players

Category:Youngstown Phantoms players

Category:4 Nations Face-Off players