It’s time for some more NHL rumours. We’re just a couple of days away from the start of the regular season. However, the hot stove talk is only ramping up. We’ve already seen some massive deals get signed before the start of the season. However, we could see more happen in the next few days. General managers are trying to get these deals done to make sure they can have these players secured for the future.
One team that wants to get a contract done for a key player is the Winnipeg Jets. This edition of NHL rumours looks at the latest with a veteran forward who will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
What Could Be Next Deal Look Like for Key Winnipeg Jets Forward
Rumour: We take a look at the latest regarding the Jets and star forward Kyle Connor, who will be a UFA at the end of the season if he doesn’t sign a new contract before July 1.
Analysis: General managers around the league will be feeling fallout of the Kirill Kaprizov deal with the Minnesota Wild for a long time. Kaprizov signed a massive eight-year extension with a $17 million cap hit. This deal was huge for the Wild, but other teams around the league will be feeling it.
The Athletic‘s Murat Ates looked at how the contract will affect Connor, who has been one of the team’s best players. Connor is coming off his second 40-goal season last year. The University of Michigan product was already going to get a massive payday. However, Kaprizov’s deal is going to likely pull up Connor’s value.
Ates added that Connor’s camp does feel like his value will go up. However, it may not be the jump he’s expecting. Some are thinking a deal worth $12 million to $14 million is what could be the deal. However, this is up to the Jets.
Winnipeg needs a player like Connor and are hoping to figure something out. However, there are other teams that could make a play for the high-scoring forward.
What It Means
We turn to another writer from The Athletic on a team that could emerge as a possible suitor. Detroit Red Wings beat writer Max Bultman said that the team should jump the line and take a run at Connor.
One thing that could tempt Connor is the chance to play in his home state. He could also be the piece that helps push the Red Wings back into the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Detroit General Manager Steve Yzerman has made multiple attempts to land a big-name player, but has come up empty. It’ll take some effort and money, but Bultman said Detroit has to take a chance should Connor hit the market.
However, The Fourth Period reports that the Jets hope to finalize a deal before the team’s season begins on Thursday. The report added that something along the lines of $12 million to $13 million could be the final number the two sides come up with.
Winnipeg is hoping to prevent its talented winger from hitting the market. However, Jets fans won’t be able to breathe easier until a deal is signed. That’s something Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff hopes to take care of soon.
Main photo by: James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images
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