Winnipeg Jets: Top 8 prospects worth getting excited about

4. Dylan Samberg

Dylan Samberg has been one of the most exciting prospects in the Jets system since the day they selected him in the second round (43 overall) at the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. The 21-year-old just finished up his third season with the University of Minnesota-Duluth and put up his best totals to date. In 28 games this year, the 6-foot-4 defenceman posted 21 points.

Samberg signed with the Jets shortly after his team’s 2019-20 season ended, meaning he will play pro hockey next season, although it remains to be seen at what level. While it is likely he will need some seasoning in the AHL, he may end up being in the NHL sooner than later in large part due to the Jets’ weak blueline.

3. Kristian Vesalainen

Kristian Vesalainen, who was taken by the Jets with the 24th pick at the 2017 NHL Entry Draft, has had some problems adapting to the North American game. Everyone was very high on this player after a season in the SM-liiga as an 18-year-old in which he put up 43 points in 49 games.

The next season saw him bounce around as he played in games in the NHL, AHL, as well as the KHL. While his numbers weren’t overly impressive in either of the three leagues, many pointed to the fact that he was still just 19-years-old and would likely benefit from a full season in the AHL.

That full season came in the AHL this year, and while it wasn’t a complete disaster his numbers weren’t what many had expected. The recently turned 21-year-old was only able to put up 12 goals and 18 assists in 60 games played.

While those numbers are certainly disappointing, it should be noted that the entire Manitoba Moose squad struggled this season, as their leading scorer only recorded 41 points. This next season will be huge for Vesalainen; if he struggles, he could slide right off this list, but if he is able to fully adjust to the North American game, he may find himself in the NHL very shortly.