MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Over the course of the 2021-22 season, Lukas Nies was invited to practice with the Metro Jets while playing his senior year of high school hockey for Birmingham Unified.

Last week, the 2004-born forward signed with the USPHL organization for the 2022-23 season.

“Practicing with the team, I really enjoyed that experience,” said Nies, a Birmingham, Mich., native. “I liked the speed of the game, and the coaching staff seems very invested in helping their players advance.”

During the 2021-22 season, Nies collected nine goals and 24 points in 25 games for the Kings.

Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville is excited to see how Nies’ game will adjust to junior hockey.

“We are excited about Lukas’ signing and I know he is as well,” said Quenneville. “We had him out to skate with us and both parties were able to get a sense of everything. He had a strong senior high school season and caught the eyes of many with his speed and skill set. We think he will transition well and benefit from our environment. We look forward to working with him and helping him reach his goals.”

Nies feels his game will fit with the systems the Jets run during games.

“I think I can bring a good offensive presence to the team,” said Nies. “Throughout the years, I’ve always had speed as my main factor to my game and I think that can help make this transition to juniors.”

Looking ahead, Nies has attainable aspirations he is hoping the Jets can help him reach.

“My short-term goal is to improve my defensive awareness,” Nies said. “My long-term goal is to be able to move on to college hockey after juniors.”