Free agency season is upon us! In an unusual move we are getting a glimpse into how the Winnipeg Jets work, a peak behind the curtain if you will. First up is a report that Mathieau Perreault may be looking at extending his stay with the Winnipeg Jets:
Sounds like there’s mutual interest between Jets and Mathieu Perreault in getting an extension done fairly soon. He can sign after July 1.
— Craig Custance (@CraigCustance) June 24, 2016
This was confirmed by Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff himself:
#NHLJets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff said there’s “some good mutual attraction both ways” regarding a potential extension for Mathieu Perreault
— Ken Wiebe (@WiebeSunSports) June 25, 2016
Perreault would certainly get a raise from his current 3×3 contract which expires on July 1st 2017. He cannot sign any extension before July 1 2016. Although his role in the future may not be clear, his versatility in being able to play either the left wing or center position makes him a valuable player. If the Jets were to extend him they would likely also protect him in the expansion draft. One possible wrinkle under the collective bargaining agreement is Perreault could receive a retroactive NMC that would kick in as soon as his extension is signed, and this would automatically shield him from the expansion draft because the Jets would be forced to protect him
Under the new collective bargaining agreement a window to talk to pending unrestricted free agents opened at 11 AM CST last night. Arthur Staple reports that the Jets were one of the teams talking to Kyle Okposo's representatives:
Sounds like no shortage of suitors for Kyle Okposo now that UFA contact window has opened. WPG, STL, LAK, MIN, DET among them, source says.
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) June 25, 2016
Competition will be fierce for probably the second most sought after free agent forward behind Steven Stamkos. A serious offer in the 6-7 year range and 6-7 AAV salary would be what it takes to land the skilled player. It seems as though the New York Islanders have no interest in bringing him back. On the Jets he would put up numbers that rival Blake Wheeler:
Is there a fit for a player like this on the team? Does this mean Nikolaj Ehlers is going to stay on the left side when he prefers the right? What does this potentially mean for Drew Stafford? Let us know what you think.