The Winnipeg Jets have found themselves in unfamiliar territory this season.
After a lengthy rebuild that seemingly took forever, the NHL’s second newest team is tied for fourth place in the league and first in the Central Division. Winnipeg ranks fifth in both goals for, and against in the 2017-18 campaign.
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Contrary to previous seasons, Winnipeg might be active at the trade deadline. With an already balanced lineup, a new addition could be the piece that puts them over the top in the playoffs. The question now becomes which players could actually be the right fit on their roster
TSN’s Darren Dreger reported on Monday that the Jets have “kicked the tires” on longtime New York Ranger Rick Nash, Ottawa Senators sniper Mike Hoffman, Edmonton Oilers forwards Patrick & Maroon Mark Letestu, and Chicago Blackhawks youngster Ryan Hartman. All players with the exception of Hoffman are set to become either a UFA or RFA this summer.
Of the players mentioned, Nash’s is certainly the most recognizable. The seven-time 30-goal-scorer leads the group with 77 playoffs games and has collected 41 points over that stretch. He could add a dose of experience to what is currently one of the younger teams in hockey.
As the deadline approaches, it will be interesting to see if Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff feels the need to make a move. If the price is right, any fan would likely welcome one of these five players onto their roster.
(H/T Darren Dreger)
