Justin Kea is a former professional hockey player and current NHL referee. Hailing from Woodville, ON, Justin Kea, a former professional hockey player, entered the scene when he was selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, 3rd round (#73 overall).
Over his five-year career, he played 283 professional games in the American Hockey League (AHL) and the ECHL. Before his professional stint, Kea showcased his skills in 253 games with the Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
After a five-year professional playing career, including stints in the AHL and ECHL, Kea, a 6'5", 216-lb. center, shifted to officiating. He attended the NHL Officiating Exposure Combine in Buffalo, earning an NHL Minor League Referee contract. Having previously played for the Saginaw Spirit in the OHL, Kea's transition from player to referee reflects his deep connection to the world of hockey. Notably, Justin attended the NHL Officiating Exposure Combine in Buffalo, NY, during the summer of 2021, where he earned an NHL Minor League Referee contract.
Referee Justin Kea made his NHL officiating debut in a game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Buffalo Sabres, a poignant moment as he was drafted by the Sabres in 2012. Taking the ice alongside referee Gord Dwyer and linesmen Jonny Murray and David Brisebois, Kea will don the number 44 jersey.
This debut marks a full-circle moment for Kea, who began his hockey career with the Sabres in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, where he was selected ahead of current NHL stars Jaccob Slavin, Frederik Andersen, and Connor Hellebuyck.
Justin Kea Salary
Unfortunately, Justin Kea's precise salary during his career remains undisclosed. However, considering factors such as the NHL referee salary range (estimated at $165,000 to $360,000+ per year in 2023), referees with more than five years of experience can reportedly earn $250,000 to $350,000 per year. Top referees with over 10 years of experience and consistent performance may earn $400,000 annually.
Considering Justin Kea's officiating career, which began in 2012, his salary likely falls within the range of $250,000 to $350,000 per year. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and the actual figures may vary.
Justin Kea’s Net Worth
Justin Kea's precise net worth is undisclosed, hindered by a lack of public information on his salary, investments, and additional financial aspects. With insights into his income from NHL refereeing, potential endorsements, or investments, determining his net worth is easier. Nevertheless, considering his estimated NHL earnings between $1-1.5 million added with potential income from other sources, Justin Kea's net worth is presumed to be in the low millions.
Various factors, including personal expenses, investments, and liabilities, contribute to the uncertainty surrounding the actual figure. Despite accumulating considerable wealth during his career, his specific net worth remains undisclosed.
FAQs
A: Justin Kea, originally from Woodville, ON, was selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft and played 283 professional games in the AHL and ECHL.
A: After a five-year playing career, Kea smoothly transitioned to officiating, attending the NHL Officiating Exposure Combine and earning an NHL Minor League Referee contract.
A: Justin Kea made his NHL officiating debut in a game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Buffalo Sabres, marking a full-circle moment as he was drafted by the Sabres in 2012.
A: Justin Kea dons the number 44 jersey as a referee in NHL games.
A: The estimated salary range for NHL referees in 2023 is between $165,000 and $360,000+ per year, with top referees earning upwards of $400,000 annually. Justin Kea's officiating career likely falls within the range of $250,000 to $350,000 per year.
