Report: Jets’ Former First-Round Pick Attracts Trade Interest Following a Disappointing First-round Playoff Exit…
The Winnipeg Jets are navigating a challenging offseason following a disappointing first-round playoff exit. Changes include Scott Arniel taking over as head coach and Tyler Toffoli likely leaving the team. David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reports that forward Cole Perfetti is attracting trade interest, though no serious negotiations have taken place regarding the pending restricted free agent.
Winnipeg has drafted well in recent years, securing several promising forward prospects to maintain their competitive edge during the Connor Hellebuyck/Mark Scheifele era. 2022 first-round picks Rutger McGroarty and Brad Lambert show top-six potential, especially McGroarty. Additionally, 2023 first-rounder Colby Barlow just completed his second consecutive 40-goal season with the Owen Sound Attack in the Ontario Hockey League.
Perfetti, selected 10th overall in 2020, stands out among these prospects. The 22-year-old Ontario native had a respectable second season, scoring 19 goals and 38 points in 71 games, while demonstrating strong possession stats. However, his average ice time decreased to 13:35 per game from 14:58 in his rookie season under head coach Rick Bowness. Perfetti’s usage dwindled towards the season’s end, and he played only once in the first-round playoff series against the Avalanche, recording three shots in less than 11 minutes during the Game 5 loss.
His reduced role has sparked trade inquiries, but as an RFA without arbitration rights, there is no immediate need to trade him unless an offer sheet emerges, which would provide appropriate compensation.
Trading Perfetti could be a misstep, especially as Hellebuyck and Scheifele’s seven-year, $59.5 million extensions begin next season. Perfetti excelled before the All-Star break, with 30 points and a +12 rating in 47 games, but struggled after, scoring five goals and eight points in the final 24 games, partly due to his ice time frequently dropping below 10 minutes per game.
Given the expected free-agent turnover this summer, retaining a high-potential player like Perfetti is prudent, especially since his next contract likely won’t be costly after his slow finish. Evolving Hockey projects a bridge deal for Perfetti at $3 million per season for two years, and a one-year deal might be closer to $2 million if cap space is a priority for GM Kevin Cheveldayoff. Perfetti won’t reach unrestricted free agency until 2029, so a short-term deal is not a concern, though he will be eligible for arbitration with his next contract.
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