The Winnipeg Jets’ summer has not been going to plan as they still have not signed two high-profile RFAs. Can they get everything together before the season starts?
The Winnipeg Jets are slowly steering away from the juggernaut team they were for the last two seasons. They traded away defenseman Jacob Trouba for virtually nothing, Dustin Byfuglien‘s last two seasons were riddled with injuries, and they still have not signed their two young superstars; Patrik Laine and Kyle Connor.
This offseason, Chris Johnston spoke to Laine in Finland to discuss his future with the Winnipeg Jets and he had some interesting things to say.
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When Johnston asked if he wanted to stay in Winnipeg, Laine had this to say.
"“Well I’ve got nothing bad to say about Winnipeg, you know? It’s been good so far. But you never know, so that’s kind of my comments.”"
Laine’s contract is one of the toughest ones to figure out because of the massive highs and lows he went through, especially last season.
He went from scoring five goals in a game to barely scoring any in the second half of the season. It’s logical that Winnipeg is hesitant to go all-in after a season like that.
However, Laine’s comments are wild. He fully admitted that he is uncertain with his future and isn’t sure if he will play with Winnipeg next season. This is a huge bomb for the Jets as their young superstar is telling everyone that he’s open to other teams.
Along with Laine, the Jets still have not signed another young talent in Connor. He’s had back-to-back 30+ goal seasons and why he isn’t locked up long term yet is shocking. Connor said that he wants to focus on a long-term deal and at 22 years old, the Jets could have him locked in right through his prime.
Winnipeg has $17 million in cap space and two of their key players still unsigned. Laine has already been very open with the possibility of playing with another team while Connor said that he’s interested in a long-term deal. These are two key players for the Jets and if these negotiations go past training camp and into the season, this will be a huge blow for the team.