NHL
The Winnipeg Jets were one of the NHL’s top teams last season. They were second in the Central Division behind the Nashville Predators. The Jets won 52 games, lost 20 in regulation, and lost 10 in overtime and/or shootout. They were fun to watch last year.
They were fast, young, and full of energy. The Jets won over the hearts of Winnipeg and Manitoba as they boasted the best season in franchise history and solidified themselves as cup contenders for years to come. However, they lost in five games in the conference finals to the surprise Vegas Golden Knights.
The Jets and their fans have a lot to look forward to. They have a great young forward core, which includes Patrik Laine, Mark Schiefele, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Kyle Connor. They have some neat young defenseman, as well, like Josh Morrisey and Joe Morrow. Connor Hellebuyck has proven to be an elite goalie and looks to get even better. With the Jets now entering free agency, they should focus on re-signing some key players.
Firstly, they want to re-sign centre Paul Statsny. Statsny played a pivotal role in the playoffs and played between Laine and Ehlers. His point production went up when he arrived in Winnipeg. Statsny has expressed interest in returning to Winnipeg. Of course, the contract will come down to money. Re-signing Statsny could mean moving Matthew Perreault to clear up cap space.
The Jets need to give new deals to Jacob Trouba and Connor Hellebuyck. Both will be looking for high pay raises, as they have performed very well last season. Hellebuyck has proven to be an elite goalie and Trouba is a very talented all-around defenceman with a ton of upside. Josh Morrisey needs a new contract, as well, as he also has become a restricted free agent. He is a very reliable offensive defenceman who could progress more.
Adam Lowry and Joel Armia need contracts, as well. Captain Blake Wheeler is a UFA next summer and the Jets could give him an extension.
I don’t really think the Jets will acquire many free agents, as they have a lot of re-signing to do. However, there is a possibility they could target one or two players for depth. For now, Kevin Cheveldayoff’s priority is to re-sign key players, especially the likes of Stastny, Trouba, and Hellebuyck.
