Winnipeg Jets Free Agents 2024…

The Winnipeg Jets’ season concluded sooner than expected, raising numerous offseason questions. As focus shifts to the team’s unrestricted free agents, key players nearing contract end are in the spotlight, sparking speculation about their futures. This series explores whether these players will stay with the Jets or move on.

Today’s spotlight is on defenseman Brenden Dillon, set to become an unrestricted free agent. Dillon has previously expressed his fondness for Winnipeg and openness to an extension, though his future now seems uncertain.

Following a strong contract season, Dillon’s profile has risen, leaving fans wondering if the formidable defenseman will return or if they should brace for his departure.

**Strong Performance in the Top 4**
Dillon has been a cornerstone of the Jets’ top-four defense over the past three seasons, consistently paired with Neal Pionk on the second line. Averaging nearly 19 minutes of ice time per game in the 2023-24 season, Dillon excelled in his role.

Though not typically an offensive force, Dillon’s scoring contributions were a significant bonus for the Jets. He scored eight goals during the regular season and one in the playoffs, totaling a career-high nine goals, the most since his junior days with the Seattle Thunderbirds in the WHL.

This uptick in offensive involvement, while not a complete shift in his game, demonstrated Dillon’s willingness to take more shots and be more aggressive offensively. Combined with his solid, physical defense, Dillon provided substantial value to the Jets this season.

**A Commanding Presence**
Dillon’s game is defined by his size and physicality. For the second consecutive season, he led the Jets in hits, recording a career-high 241. This physical style is a hallmark of Dillon’s play, endearing him to fans.

Additionally, Dillon frequently steps up to protect his teammates, tying with Adam Lowry this season with seven fighting majors. His readiness to defend his team epitomized the “you go for one of us, you’ll get all of us” culture promoted by the now-retired head coach Rick Bowness.

**Potential Departure?**
Reports from May 15 indicated that Dillon’s camp had not been contacted by the Jets about an extension, suggesting a high likelihood of him entering free agency. With the team also searching for a new head coach, free-agent negotiations might be on the back burner.

I'm told the likelihood of Brenden Dillon returning to #NHLJets next year is slim at best, and he will become a UFA.

Sources say Dillon's camp didn't receive an offer & held no conversations regarding an extension during the season. He hasn't heard from the team since it ended.

— Scott Billeck (@ScottBilleck) May 15, 2024

Dillon’s value to the Jets as both a player and person makes the potential parting difficult. However, with Dillon turning 34 next season and younger defensemen ready to step up, this might be the time for a transition.

Dillon’s physically demanding style of play increases his injury risk as he ages. He might seek a multi-year contract extending beyond age 35, which could lead to reduced minutes—an unattractive prospect for any player.

If Dillon desires to remain a top-four player, his tenure with the Jets may be nearing its end. While the team will miss his toughness and commitment, the situation seems poised for change, with Dylan Samberg ready to take Dillon’s spot on the second pairing.

Should Dillon leave, he will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates as “Dilly,” having played a significant role in shaping the team’s identity during pivotal seasons.