Nikita Chibrikov is a player I’ve been keeping a close eye on ever since the Winnipeg Jets drafted him. And the day he steps into a full-time NHL role could be just around the corner—hopefully as early as next season.

Chibrikov, 22, has spent the past two seasons with the Jets’ AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose, while also making brief appearances in the NHL. In 2023–24, he played 70 games with the Moose, scoring 17 goals and tallying 47 points. He also got a taste of the NHL in the Jets’ final regular season game against the Vancouver Canucks, where he made an immediate impact by scoring his first career NHL goal.

Fast forward to 2024–25: it was a tough season for both Chibrikov and the Moose. Manitoba finished with the worst record in franchise history (25-41-3-3), and Chibrikov suffered a season ending injury in a game against the Toronto Marlies on January 19th, 2025. Yet, he still managed to put up 20 points in just 30 AHL games and earned another call-up to the NHL.

He appeared in four games with the Jets this past season, scoring two goals and adding an assist. That’s impressive production for a player with limited NHL experience—and it shows he can contribute when given the opportunity.

Despite standing just 5-foot-10, Chibrikov is an offensively-minded winger with excellent skating ability. He’s relentless in the offensive zone, has slick hands, and owns a strong shot. But if he wants to become a more complete player, his defensive game will need to improve. The offensive potential is clearly there, and the best way for him to take the next step is by playing more NHL minutes. With open spots on the Jets’ third line, there’s no reason that opportunity shouldn’t come soon.

Drafted 50th overall in the second round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, Chibrikov now finds himself in prime position. With the departure of Mason Appleton, there’s a real chance for him to slide into the third-line right wing spot. He could also be a solid fit on the second power-play unit, where his net-front presence or shot could be real threats.

With multiple holes still left to fill on the Jets’ roster, it would be foolish not to give Chibrikov a real shot this fall.