The Winnipeg Jets have made a significant move to solidify their future by signing Mark Scheifele and Connor Hellebuyck to identical seven-year contract extensions. This announcement comes as a relief to Jets fans, as both players were set to become unrestricted free agents at the end of the season. With rumors swirling about possible trade partners, General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff successfully kept the franchise cornerstones in the fold, eliminating any distractions before the start of the regular season.
Mark Scheifele and Connor Hellebuyck have been integral parts of the Winnipeg Jets’ success over the years. Scheifele, drafted seventh overall in 2011, has consistently been one of the team’s top forwards. With 272 goals and 645 points in 723 career games, he has shouldered a heavy workload at even strength and on special teams. On the other side of the ice, Hellebuyck has emerged as not only the Jets’ number one goaltender but also one of the best in the league. Since the 2016-17 season, he has started more games than any other goalie, boasting a record of 225-143-36, a .916 save percentage, and a 2.68 goals-against average.
The Jets’ decision to invest in Scheifele and Hellebuyck speaks to their potential and value to the team. Both players have been unwavering in their commitment to remain with the organization long-term, despite speculation and discussions during the summer and training camp. With average annual values of $8.5 million, they will be well-compensated for their contributions. This places them amongst the league’s best players and shows the Jets’ dedication to building a competitive team.
Securing Scheifele and Hellebuyck’s long-term commitment is just the beginning for the Winnipeg Jets. With negotiations resolved, the team can now focus on developing their prospects and improving their postseason performances. After reaching the Western Conference finals in the 2017-18 season, the Jets have struggled to regain that level of success. Last season, they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Vegas Golden Knights, who eventually became the Stanley Cup champions. However, with Scheifele and Hellebuyck leading the way, the Jets’ prospects of returning to their previous form are greatly enhanced.
While the extensions for Scheifele and Hellebuyck were undoubtedly positive news, the Jets did experience a setback with the departure of Pierre-Luc Dubois. The former top-six forward was traded to the Los Angeles Kings earlier in the offseason. Dubois’ absence will be felt, but the Jets’ goal remains unchanged – to build a competitive team that can contend for the Stanley Cup. With their homegrown talents locked in for the long term, the Jets are well-positioned to take on that challenge.
As the Winnipeg Jets kick off their regular season against the Calgary Flames, there is renewed optimism and excitement among fans. The extensions for Mark Scheifele and Connor Hellebuyck provide stability and a clear path forward for the franchise. Their long-term commitment, combined with the development of prospects, positions the Jets to reach new heights and potentially bring the Stanley Cup back to Winnipeg. The future looks bright for the Jets, and fans can’t wait to see what lies ahead.
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