Winnipeg Jets Lead in Pursuit of Jonathan Toews
The Winnipeg Jets have emerged as the clear frontrunner in the pursuit of Jonathan Toews, fueled in part by Toews’ connection with Jets chairman Mark Chipman and his eagerness to represent his hometown team. Despite this strong inclination, Toews’ agent, Pat Brisson, engaged with numerous teams following the May 29 announcement confirming his return to the NHL. Discussions took place with around 15 clubs, notably including the Colorado Avalanche, Montreal Canadiens, and Toronto Maple Leafs.
Team Interests and Perspectives
The Maple Leafs, eager to break through to the next level in playoff competitiveness, saw Toews as a strategic fit, prompting general manager Brad Treliving to explore the possibility. However, indications suggested that the decision was narrowing down to either Winnipeg or Colorado early in the discussions. The Canadiens were also eyeing Toews, believing his wealth of playoff experience could be invaluable to their roster. Conversely, the Avalanche sought to bolster their chances of another Cup run and envisioned a role for Toews that would allow him to make significant contributions without the burden of leading the team. Ultimately, Colorado emerged as a close contender but fell short in the race for Toews’ signature.
Toews’ Integration with the Jets
As Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff pointed out, this acquisition isn’t just about where Toews will start but rather about how his roles may evolve as he acclimates to the team. Cheveldayoff emphasized that Toews’ integration will be a process, allowing him room to regain his former performance levels after a significant hiatus from play. With injuries to other key players, Toews might find himself in a supporting, yet crucial role, possibly slotting in as a second-line center behind one of the league’s premier third-line centers, Adam Lowry.
Other NHL Contract Situations
In other NHL news, the situation surrounding Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars is garnering attention. While the Stars are not actively shopping Robertson, they are open to dialogue with other teams to better understand his market value. His current contract, with a cap hit of $7.75 million for one more year, places his valuation at a peak. As he edges closer to becoming a restricted free agent in July 2026, Dallas is weighing the potential for an extension, though the outcome remains uncertain as negotiations could drag into late summer.
Further discussions are revolving around star players’ potential extensions as Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid expressed his desire to stay but emphasized the need for clear organizational direction on their future competitiveness. Oilers GM Stan Bowman is prioritizing communication with McDavid to ensure he feels aligned with the team’s ambitions. Given McDavid’s past experience, fans shouldn’t be alarmed if an extension doesn’t materialize quickly; historical context suggests similar timelines for high-profile players like Leon Draisaitl last season.
Meanwhile, the outlook for Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs includes rumors of a strategic two-year contract worth approximately $12 to $13 million. This move would set him up to tap into potential financial gains when the salary cap is expected to rise significantly in the coming years. However, his injury history poses risks to such a short-term gamble.
Other Notable Contract Discussions
In Florida, Sam Bennett‘s enthusiastic declaration post-Stanley Cup victory showcased his commitment to the Panthers, indicating a mutual desire to finalize a contract extension, albeit with negotiations still ongoing. The timeline for this deal likely coincides with previous negotiations that wrapped up securely before free agency periods.
In Calgary, Rasmus Andersson‘s contract discussions have encountered challenges, leading the Flames to explore possible trades for the defenseman, though they retain comfort in having him under contract for another season. Interest from other clubs remains high, given that right-shot defensemen of Andersson’s caliber are increasingly hard to come by.
Lastly, in the wake of a recent trade, the Seattle Kraken have swapped out Andre Burakovsky for Mason Marchment, aiming for enhanced team dynamics and improved performance while keeping an eye on the impending contract negotiations for Marchment next season.
Looking Ahead
As July 1 approaches, several significant contracts loom as critical developments unfold throughout the league.
