Winnipeg Jets: Lessons from Hurricanes and Golden Knights for a Winning Future

The Winnipeg Jets are at a pivotal point in their development, having spent years building a roster with championship potential. However, as the Stanley Cup was awarded once again this past spring, the Jets found themselves on the outside looking in, just like many other teams in the league.

With the Western Conference champion Vegas Golden Knights and the Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes serving as prime examples, there are invaluable lessons for general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff to consider. The Golden Knights, in particular, offer a compelling case study in modern NHL roster construction. Under the guidance of general manager Kelly McCrimmon, they have cultivated a culture of aggressive, calculated risk-taking, adeptly trading draft assets and prospects for proven players at precisely the right moments.

Although the majority of the Vegas roster is not homegrown, their commitment to winning has made them a perennial contender. Players know that the organization prioritizes success, creating an irresistible destination for talent.

The Jets have demonstrated a similar willingness to invest in top-tier talent, having secured long-term commitments from stars like Kyle Connor, Mark Scheifele, and Connor Hellebuyck. This reflects an organizational vision that resonates with players. However, where Winnipeg has struggled is in making those key complementary moves that can elevate a contender to the next level. Instead of making bold acquisitions this past offseason, the Jets opted for the underwhelming additions of Jonathan Toews and Gustav Nyquist, moves that ultimately did little to enhance the roster.

These decisions have heightened the sense of urgency within the organization. Hellebuyck has openly expressed his desire to win a Stanley Cup, and his remarks carry the weight of a ticking clock, amplifying the need for action.

As the offseason approaches, the Jets are in an enviable position, boasting over $21 million in available cap space and an opportunity to revitalize a forward group that underperformed last season. The Carolina blueprint is particularly instructive, featuring a roster built without any players earning eight figures, through a blend of bold acquisitions and smart, cost-effective signings.

Carolina’s success includes landing Nikolaj Ehlers via free agency, trading for Mikko Rantanen, and later adding Logan Stankoven from Dallas. They also brought in Taylor Hall at a favorable price and filled their bottom six with reliable contributors such as William Carrier, Jordan Martinook, Eric Robinson, Mark Jankowski, and Jordan Staal. Additionally, they strengthened their defense through a trade for K’Andre Miller and the signing of Sean Walker.

While the Jets don’t need to replicate every move made by the Hurricanes, their strategic approach is worth emulating. Winnipeg has a chance to tap into a free agent market filled with capable middle-six and bottom-six forwards. Potential targets like Michael Bunting, Scott Laughton, Eeli Tolvanen, Bobby McMann, Mason Marchment, Anthony Mantha, Jason Dickinson, and Oliver Bjorkstrand could all provide meaningful contributions without straining the salary cap. Adding three such players could significantly enhance the offensive depth that has been lacking.

Beyond shoring up depth, the Jets must also focus on acquiring a true top-six forward, a move that can transform the lineup much like Ehlers did for Carolina. With draft picks and prospects still in hand, the organization should act decisively if they believe, as Hellebuyck’s comments suggest, that their window for contention is open.

Despite a season marred by injuries, the Jets’ defense remains solid, anchored by Josh Morrissey, Neal Pionk, Dylan DeMelo, and Dylan Samberg. The primary focus this offseason should be on rebuilding the offense. The Jets find themselves in a favorable position relative to many teams in the league, boasting elite goaltending, proven star forwards, and a reliable defensive core. The gap between the Jets and the Golden Knights lies not in top-end talent, but in the finishing touches—those crucial moves that create tangible separation in the standings and build genuine depth for a playoff run.

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