Winnipeg Jets' top 3 prospects to watch out for in 2024/25 season

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Aug 08, 2024 04:47 GMT

The Winnipeg Jets have a deep prospect pool that features several potential high-impact players. This outlook bodes well for the club as the Winnipeg Jets look to remain competitive for years to come.

It’s worth pointing out that the Jets have a solid development system, allowing the club to maintain a constant pipeline filled with up-and-coming talent.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at three Winnipeg Jets prospects that could make an impact this upcoming season.

Winnipeg Jets' top 3 prospects to watch out for in 2024/25

#3: Brad Lambert

Lambert was the Winnipeg Jets’ first-round pick in 2022. He can play center and wing, making him an interesting option for the Jets given the team’s positional needs. He’s described as a smooth skater who moves the puck with high precision.

The Finnish-Canadian 20-year-old spent last season with the Manitoba Moose of the AHL. In 55 games, he registered 21 goals and 55 points. That performance should earn him an invitation to training camp this fall.

However, Lambert will likely play the entire season in the AHL. It’s worth keeping an eye on Lambert as another strong AHL season could earn him a look at the NHL level, particularly if injuries become an issue for the big club.

#2: Chaz Lucius

Lucius was the 18th overall pick in the 2021 Draft. The Winnipeg Jets selected Lucius for this powerful and precise shot. He’s described as a strong playmaker who reads teammates well. He uses his senses well, anticipating opportunities others might miss.

The 21-year-old American has played parts of two seasons with the Manitoba Moose. He’s also spent time in the WHL and has been a member of the US U-20 club. This season, Lucius should start the year with the Moose in the AHL. However, he could be nearing a call-up soon.

#1: Ville Heinola

The 23-year-old Finnish blueliner was the Winnipeg Jets’ first-round pick in 2019. While he’s expected to start the year in the AHL, he is the Jets’ prospect likeliest to make the jump to the NHL. Last season, Heinola played 41 games with the Moose, notching 27 points. The year before, he scored 37 points in 48 games.

Heinola could have a chance to make the team out of training camp. The Jets will be looking for defensive depth, making Heinola either the first call-up on the defense or a mainstay if injuries impact the blue line.

Heinola could be a solid middle-pairing defenseman, especially if d-men such as Dylan Samberg or Colin Miller struggle this season. Heinola has already played in parts of three seasons with the big club, totaling 11 points in 35 games. That situation makes Heinola the most NHL-ready prospect in the pipeline.