Walker Duehr Signs Two-Year Extension with Winnipeg Jets

The Winnipeg Jets have made a significant move by extending forward Walker Duehr, who excelled as the fifth leading scorer for their AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose. This announcement came on Monday morning, marking a promising step for the 28-year-old right winger, who joined the Jets as a free agent less than a year ago. Last season, Duehr saw limited action in the NHL, appearing in just three games.

According to the team’s press release, Duehr’s new contract spans two years and is valued at $1.75 million, with an NHL salary of $850,000. The signing is seen as a strategic addition for the Jets as they look to bolster their lineup.

Originally from South Dakota, Duehr has carved out an impressive path in professional hockey. After four seasons with Minnesota State University, he joined the Calgary Flames organization. He made his NHL debut on November 14, 2021, after spending time with the Stockton Heat. However, his journey took a turn when the San Jose Sharks claimed him off waivers on January 22, 2025. Rather than staying on the main roster, he played only eight games with the Sharks and 16 with their AHL affiliate, the Barracuda.

Interestingly, last season marked a career high for Duehr in terms of games played. He suited up for 62 contests with the Moose, scoring 17 goals and accumulating 34 points. Although he went pointless in his three NHL appearances, this season represented the first time in his career, since his days in AAA hockey, that he reached more than 15 goals and 30 points.

Duehr’s early career highlights include winning the USHL Clark Cup with the Tri-City Storm in the 2015-16 season and securing an NCAA (WCHA) championship in 2018-19. Across six seasons in the AHL, he has recorded 59 goals and 112 points in 205 games, while his NHL stats stand at 11 goals and 21 points over 95 games.

With Duehr’s contract now in place, the Jets find themselves with approximately $21 million in cap space, leaving them with some flexibility to sign a few remaining unrestricted and restricted free agents, as well as to secure a backup goalie for Connor Hellebuyck.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.