The Winnipeg Jets announced today that they’ve agreed to terms with defenceman Haydn Fleury on a two-year contract carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $975,000.

Fleury, 28, registered seven assists in 39 games for the Jets during the 2024-25 regular season. He added two more assists in eight playoff games as part of Winnipeg’s postseason run.

Originally selected seventh overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2014 NHL Draft, the Saskatchewan native has now skated in 307 career NHL games with the Hurricanes, Anaheim Ducks, Seattle Kraken, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Jets — recording 44 points (10G, 34A) and 85 penalty minutes. He’s also appeared in 26 career playoff games, contributing four points (2G, 2A) with Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Winnipeg.

Fleury’s 39 games this season mark his highest total since the 2019-20 campaign with Carolina, where he posted a career-high 14 points in 45 games. Despite a mid-season injury, Fleury provided reliable minutes as a depth option on the Jets’ blue line. He’s filled similar roles with each of his previous teams over the past six seasons, consistently earning NHL time as a steady, if unspectacular, presence.

While Fleury might not jump off the page, his consistent defensive play and professional approach make him a solid bet to round out Winnipeg’s defensive depth. This cost-effective deal locks in a dependable option on the Jets’ back end for the next two seasons.

Speaking during his end-of-season media availability, Fleury made clear he hoped to stay in Winnipeg.

“Being able to play in a city where hockey matters is huge for me,” said the 6’4″ defenceman. “And just to be able to show my kids how much a sport can do for a community is something I’m really proud I got to show my son this year.”

Of the nine defencemen the Jets dressed during the playoffs, Fleury was one of two without contracts for next season. He was also the only unrestricted free agent among them. The team now turns its attention to restricted free agent Dylan Samberg as the next blueliner requiring a new deal.