The Winnipeg Jets are entering the offseason with plans to enhance their offensive lineup by adding skilled forwards to boost their goal-scoring capabilities as the playoffs continue. Frank Seravalli from Daily Faceoff released his list of the top 20 NHL trade targets for the offseason, with Buffalo Sabres’ JJ Peterka and Minnesota Wild’s Marco Rossi leading the pack.
The Jets might incorporate Nikita Cibrikov into their lineup this season. Although Cibrikov suffered a season-ending injury last year, the team is hopeful he will be a full participant starting from training camp. The decision to pursue another young forward alongside promoting Cibrikov will be independent of what Nikolaj Ehlers decides, as adding more scoring talent is a priority regardless.
Rossi seems to meet the Jets’ needs better than Peterka, though both would be valuable additions. Rossi is expected to take on the second-line center role, complementing Cole Perfetti and Ehlers. At 23 years old, Rossi scored 24 goals and 60 points over 82 games last season, showcasing balanced production on the power play and at even strength with effective two-way play. As a skilled playmaker, he can work well with Perfetti and create offensive opportunities for Ehlers.
Peterka, a winger, could add complexity to the line combinations but would be a great gain if the Jets feel comfortable centering him. At 23, Peterka is highly talented, with Buffalo reluctant to trade him, although a move may be necessary unless he re-signs. In 77 games, he recorded 27 goals and 68 points, second-best on his team, with lethal shooting skills and the ability to create shooting space. Playing alongside Kyle Connor, Ehlers, or Perfetti would give him many chances to impress.
Both Rossi and Peterka have consistently played top-six minutes, averaging over 18 minutes per game in the regular season. While they are restricted free agents who need new contracts, the Jets’ cap space of more than $26 million should make it manageable, even after trades involving Ehlers, Vilardi, and Dylan Samberg.
In other news, Haydn Fleury expressed his desire to remain with the Jets despite the current defensive roster congestion. Additionally, the Jets’ free agent Axel Jonsson-Fjallby, who had pending signings with Swedish teams, has officially inked a three-year deal with Winnipeg.
Fan Take: For hockey fans, this offseason could be pivotal as the Jets focus on upgrading their forward lines with young, talented players like Rossi and Peterka, which could significantly enhance their scoring depth. These moves not only reflect a strategic push to contend more seriously in the playoffs but also highlight the exciting potential of shaping a dynamic future for the team and the sport.
