3 Players to Target at the Trade Deadline for the Winnipeg Jets

The Winnipeg Jets are having a shaky season, to say the least, sitting several points outside the wildcard, despite having high postseason expectations since acquiring Pierre-Luc Dubois from the Columbus Blue Jackets for coveted right winger Patrick Laine.

For the last several seasons, the Jets have been in and out of playoff contention, teetering around the Stanley Cup Finals. With the addition of Dubious in conjunction with the Jets’ veteran core, they can possibly make a late-season playoff push if the right players are acquired.

Three players the Jets should consider grabbing at the deadline.

Cornerstone players Dubois, Mark Scheifele, and Kyle Connor continue to tally goals and points, although it hasn’t been enough. Who should the Jets go after to help bolster their record and keep their slim postseason hopes alive? Let’s find out.

Tomas Hertl

San Jose Sharks, Center, Age 28, 54 GP, 22 G, 20 A, 42 PTs

Jets fans are some of the most passionate in the NHL and a lovable forward such as Tomas Hertl would be embraced with open arms if acquired. Hertl would provide the Jets with a strong foundation for a possible rebuild or restructuring given his track record of consistent performance and versatility.

However, Hertl may be inclined to remain with the San Jose Sharks or join a surefire contender rather than a Jets team stuck in limbo despite their recent positive strides.

Owen Tippet

Florida Panthers Prospect, Forward, Age 23, 42 GP, 6 G, 8 A, 14 PTs

The 6-foot-1 prospect is entering the prime of his career as he solidifies himself on the ice. A perfect building block for any organization, Owen Tippet provides a liberal-styled offense by making plays through defenders rather than being predictable and conservative. He can help usher in a new era of hockey for the struggling Jets while providing a much-needed jolt.

Since the Florida Panthers are already stacked on offense, there isn’t much room for Tippet. Expect many teams to make a push for this talented young forward.

Jake DeBrusk

Boston Bruins, Left Wing, Age 25, 49 GP, 14 G, 10 A, 24 PTs

The 2015 first-round pick is playing the best hockey of his career. Jake DeBrusk is currently on a five-game scoring streak with the Boston Bruins where he tallied seven goals and two assists during said streak. He can provide the flame and motivation the Jets need to make a playoff push while solidifying their future.

However, DeBrusk is due a $4.41 million qualifying offer when his current two-year, $7.35 million contract expires at the end of the season. If the Jets truly want DeBrusk, they’ll have to go all in.

The Jets currently sit 6th place in the Central Division with a 24-21-9 record.