The Winnipeg Jets have signed defenceman Kale Clague to a one-year, two-way contract carrying an average annual value of $775,000 in the NHL.

Clague, 26, is coming off a solid season with the AHL’s Rochester Americans. The smooth-skating blueliner posted 39 points (10 goals, 29 assists) in 69 regular season games and followed it up with 11 points in just eight playoff games, showcasing the offensive upside that has long been part of his game.

Originally drafted 51st overall by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2016 NHL Draft, Clague has appeared in 94 career NHL games split between the Los Angeles Kings, Montreal Canadiens, and Buffalo Sabres. Over that span, he has recorded 2 goals and 21 assists, typically in third-pairing or injury-replacement roles.

For the Jets, this signing represents a smart addition to their defensive depth chart. With a mix of young defencemen still developing in the system, Clague’s blend of professional experience and offensive skill provides valuable flexibility. He’s a capable option to be called up when injuries strike, while also expected to play a key role with the Manitoba Moose.

Clague is expected to slot into a top-pairing role with the Moose in 2025–26, where his puck-moving ability and power-play experience will be an asset. Additionally, his veteran presence will help mentor some of Winnipeg’s promising young defence prospects like Elias Salomonsson and Alfons Freij.

From a salary cap standpoint, the two-way contract allows GM Kevin Cheveldayoff and the Jets to maintain roster flexibility without a long-term commitment.

Clague’s offensive potential has been apparent since his junior days with the Brandon Wheat Kings, where he was a point-per-game defenceman and one of the WHL’s top talents. While transitioning fully to the NHL level has been a challenge, his skating and vision remain elite, and he’s made strides in defensive awareness and decision-making.

This signing fits into Winnipeg’s broader strategy of shoring up depth, particularly on defence, as the NHL’s long season demands a deep and reliable roster.