Winnipeg Jets writer Jacob Stoller tweeted today that Seattle Kraken forward Jared McCann could be on the trading block before the trade deadline. So, the question is: Could McCann be a potential trade target for the Winnipeg Jets? In my opinion, it’s a possibility.

The Jets have the assets to make a move, including players like Nikolaj Ehlers or prospects such as Nikita Chibrikov and Chaz Lucius. These could potentially be key pieces in a trade for McCann. However, trading Ehlers comes with the risk of uncertainty about whether he would re-sign with Winnipeg at the end of the season. A risk the Jets probably won’t take.

While McCann would add more scoring—something the Jets have done well with this year—he would also help lock down the offense. Additionally, McCann is a versatile two-way player, capable of contributing on the penalty kill, which would be a valuable asset to the Jets.

The Stratford, Ontario native has posted 14 goals and 28 assists for a total of 42 points this season. He had a career year in 2022-23, scoring 40 goals and adding 30 assists for 70 points.

McCann signed a five-year, $25 million contract with Seattle on March 8, 2022, with a cap hit of $5 million per season. His deal runs through the 2026-27 season, at which point he’ll be 31 years old—a pretty solid contract.

Drafted 24th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, McCann brings more than just scoring. His ability to play both center and wing should be of particular interest to the Jets, especially given their struggles in the faceoff circle. McCann has a 47.9% faceoff win rate this season, which could hopefully improve Winnipeg’s fortunes in the dot.

With Seattle far out of the playoff race—sitting 11 points behind the final wild card spot in the Western Conference—it makes sense for them to consider shaking things up by having McCann as a trade option.