Happy trade deadline day, Jets fans! I’m doing something new this year: the 2026 edition of the Trade Deadline Live Blog to keep you updated on everything
Jets, and if things are slow, updates on the Central Division and how certain moves will affect Winnipeg’s long-term or short-term status.
Last night, Kevin Cheveldayoff dropped a
late-night banger as he sent defencemen Luke Schenn (50% retained) and Logan Stanley to the
Buffalo Sabres in exchange for forward Isak Rosén, defenceman Jacob Bryson, a 2027 second-round pick, and a conditional 2026 fourth-round pick, the better of the Sabres’ own fourth-round pick or the
Edmonton Oilers’ fourth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.
Though the elephant in the room with Schenn and Stanley has been addressed, what’s next? Will Chevy attempt to trade Gustav Nyquist or Tanner Pearson? Or maybe that was the only thing he was concerned about. We still have just over four hours until the 2:00 p.m. CT deadline, so if anything happens I’ll have you covered right here.
First, let’s talk about contracts, who’s a UFA/RFA that could make some noise? Obviously, the Jets have been sellers at this year’s deadline thus far. They recouped picks and brought in two players, including a very solid prospect in Rosén, but some signings made last summer haven’t really worked out.
UFAs/RFAs
Gustav Nyquist (UFA) – This guy has simply been a disaster. Chevy signed him to a one-year, $3.25M deal, and he only just scored his first goal last night against Tampa Bay. It’s hard to see a market for Nyquist, though we know the Jets have been trying to find a buyer. I find it difficult to see him being moved with the way it’s gone for him this season.
Jonathan Toews (UFA) – The hometown boy. What a story it’s been. Though the Jets paid way too much for a 4C, he’s already said he won’t consider going anywhere else at the deadline. I could see him reconsidering his options in free agency this summer if he wants to play another year.
Tanner Pearson (UFA) – I have nothing bad to say about him, but if he walks it’s really whatever, let a kid have his spot.
Cole Koepke (UFA) – Though it’s been a very forgettable season, he has stood out to me as a fourth-line grinder. Koepke will even contribute on the scoresheet every once in a while. If I’m the Jets, I’d look to keep him around for another year or two.
Colin Miller (UFA) – Kind of like Pearson, I don’t think it’s a bad thing if he walks. He’s not playing anyway and he’s currently injured.
Jacob Bryson (UFA) – Let him get here first, lol.
Eric Comrie (UFA) – He’s been really good since that terrible game against the Maple Leafs in the new year. I could see a contender wanting him as a backup, but it’s hard to see Comrie wanting to leave Winnipeg, especially since they keep bringing him back.
Walker Duehr (UFA) – Big, strong, fast guy. I really liked him with the Moose this year. I would keep him for another year if possible.
Cole Perfetti (RFA) – I don’t think either side has come close to a deal yet, so I think he’ll sign a one-year contract until something bigger is finalized. I can’t see him being traded, he has really elevated his game as of late.
Under Contract
Nino Niederreiter (UFA in 2028) – If he wasn’t injured, I could see the Jets trying to move him. He’s had a bit of a down year.
Vlad Namestnikov (UFA in 2028) – I thought he started the season really strong, but he kind of fell off and joined Nino in the group of guys having off years. If a deal comes up, I’d consider moving him.
Morgan Barron (UFA in 2028) – As much as I love Morgan Barron, you can’t convince me that a GM won’t be calling for a bottom-six centre for a playoff run. I hope the Jets don’t let him go, but if they’re serious about bringing in even more draft capital, you might have to.
Draft Picks
2026 Draft Picks – As of this morning, the Jets have a first-round pick and third through seventh-round picks. I originally thought they would try to get a first for Stanley, but that wasn’t the case. Maybe Nyquist or Pearson could get you a late pick.
2027 Draft Picks – Picks in every round except the fourth.
Prospects
For me, it’s hard to see anyone wanting any of the Jets’ prospects right now. Nikita Chibrikov is having a bad year, Brayden Yager isn’t performing as everyone thought he would, and Brad Lambert has been underwhelming once again. Unless you’re a club that believes a change of scenery could help, I don’t believe any of them will be considered to be moved unless the right deal pops up. Also, if you want to add to their resume, get them into some NHL games for the rest of this lost season.
Rumours
As the day goes on, I’ll be scrolling X and social media for any Jets rumours or news, and if anything relevant or interesting pops up, I’ll attach it right below here.
Maybe Winnipeg can get a fourth or fifth for Pearson?
Nevermind.
As I expected. Should hopefully be getting a fourth or fifth.
Oh wow, was hoping you’d at least get a fifth. Good news is he’s gone.
