The Winnipeg Jets are reportedly planning a roster shake-up this offseason, with the talented winger Nikolaj Ehlers potentially on the move. According to The Athletic’s Murat Ates, the Jets are likely to shop Ehlers ahead of the 2024 NHL Draft in June.
Washington Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan has expressed a desire to add scoring talent to his team. During his recent media availability, MacLellan stated that the team would explore both trade and free agency options to bolster their forward group.
Ehlers, 28, has been a consistent performer for the Jets despite not always receiving top-six ice time. He has led the team in five-on-five points per minute for the past six seasons, outperforming players who receive more ice time.
In the 2023-2024 season, Ehlers scored 61 points (25 goals, 26 assists) in 82 games. He ranked among the league’s top wingers in points per 60 minutes of ice time at five-on-five. Despite his productivity, Ehlers has struggled to secure a consistent top-six role.
Ehlers has one year remaining on his contract with a $6 million cap hit and a modified no-trade clause allowing him to block a trade to 10 teams.
The Jets had strong metrics with Ehlers on the ice, controlling shot attempts, expected goals, scoring chances, and high-danger chances. They outscored opponents 62-33 with him on the ice.
Ehlers could be a candidate for a sign-and-trade deal, allowing the Jets to maximize their return and guaranteeing his services beyond next season. The Capitals have the cap space and draft capital to be potential suitors for Ehlers. They also have openings in their lineup due to expected departures in free agency.
Winnipeg, coming off another early playoff exit, could use a trade involving Ehlers as a catalyst for rebuilding a team that has struggled in the postseason.
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