Top 5 NHL free agents Winnipeg Jets must target in 2024 offseason ft. Jonathan Marchessault
It will be an interesting offseason for the Winnipeg Jets, who fell short of their Stanley Cup aspirations this year. The club will not only need to reset and refocus for the season ahead, but they will also need to decide what they will do with some of their own pending free agents.
The Winnipeg Jets are expected to have an estimated $13,000,000 in salary cap space this offseason, which could provide the team with flexibility in terms of free agency. There are a number of areas where the club may look to upgrade this offseason, however, the center and defense positions may be near the top of the list.
A look at 5 free agents that the Winnipeg Jets should pursue this summer
#1 - Jonathan Marchessault
Jonathan Marchessault is one of the most coveted free agents who will be hitting the open market this offseason. This suggests that the Jets will face some tough competition in trying to bring him to Winnipeg, however, he could be a game-changing talent for the team. They may need to pay up to land him, but it could be worth the investment.
"Eichel serves up a silver platter for Marchessault" - @spittinchiclets
#2 - Chris Tanev
One of the underrated defensemen of the playoffs, Chris Tanev was a key force for the Dallas Stars en route to the Western Conference Finals. The veteran blue liner could bring his elite shot-blocking abilities and hard-nosed style of play to the Winnipeg Jets, which could go a long way come playoff time.
#3 - Tyler Toffoli
If the Winnipeg Jets were going to prioritize re-signing one of their own free agents, it should be Tyler Toffoli. The talented goal-scoring winger was acquired by the club near the trade deadline from the New Jersey Devils and even though he was inconsistent at times, he is still a proven star in the NHL.
"WINNIPEG JET TYLER TOFFOLI TIES THE GAME" - @NHLJets
#4 - Nikita Zadorov
Nikita Zadorov is another blueliner who can bring some physicality to the team's backend. Zadorov may not be much of an offensive threat, however, his other strengths and ability to rack up hits is something that could help Winnipeg make it through a tough Western Conference. At 29 years old, he could be an option for several years, which could make him more intriguing to the club.
#5 - Chandler Stephenson
Another forward from the Vegas Golden Knights that the Jets could look to sign is Chandler Stephenson. While he may not have the goal-scoring upside of Jonathan Marchessault, he can hold his own on both sides of the ice. Last season for the Golden Knights, Stephenson posted 16 goals and 35 assists in 75 games with the club. He could be a more affordable option at the center position for the Jets.