Shanghai Dragons Sign Forward David Chen to One-Year Contract

The Shanghai Dragons have signed 23-year-old American-Chinese forward David Chen to a one-year contract.

Chen spent the past four seasons in the NCAA with Yale University, appearing in 111 games and recording 74 points on 34 goals and 40 assists.

In 2026, Chen received a collegiate athletics association award presented to the student-athlete who achieves the highest level of success both academically and athletically. It marked the first time in Yale University history that one of its student-athletes earned the honor.

“Working with the Chinese audience is important for us, so having players with Chinese roots on the team is one of our goals,” said Evgeny Artyukhin, general manager of the Shanghai Dragons. “David is a young forward of Chinese descent and served as captain of Yale University last season. He has leadership qualities both on and off the ice. He is hardworking, committed, never gives up, can battle and can score. He is serious about taking the next step in his career, and that is why he made the decision to move to the KHL.”

With the signing, Shanghai adds a young, driven forward with leadership experience, a strong two-way work ethic and a meaningful connection to the club’s Chinese identity.

Press Office, Shanghai Dragons