EVERYWHERE A SIGN
THE JETS’ SUCCESS
in 2019-20 was predicated entirely on the otherworldly play of Connor Hellebuyck. But relying solely on goaltending moving forward is a risky proposition, and the Jets, who have only four picks in 2020, need to hit a few home runs to restock a once incredibly deep roster that has become thin, particularly on the blueline. IMMEDIATE NEEDS: Last summer’s exodus, including the stunning departure of Dustin Byfuglien, created a chasm on the blueline. The Jets attempted to plug the hole with a rotating cast, but the revolving door on the second and third pairings must stop if Winnipeg is going to capitalize while its offensive core is still at the height of its powers. Winnipeg has been hesitant to put prospects in sink-or-swim situations, but desperate times call for desperate measures. LONG-TERM NEEDS: Scouts are highest on the blueline prospects with little love given to the players Winnipeg has drafted up front. That needs to change down the road, particularly as Blake Wheeler enters into his late prime and Mark Scheifele creeps toward his 30s. The Jets were at their best when they had a mix of talented youngsters and productive top-end stars. CAP SITUATION: The Jets have four RFAs and 11 UFAs to deal with this summer. The roster will look vastly different next season, and $73.5 million in cap commitments means Winnipeg has to get creative. Byfuglien coming off the books would ease the pressure, but expect at least one cap casualty, if not more. Re-signing Dylan DeMelo is top priority.
IN THE SYSTEM 2020-21: Was Ville Heinola’s eight-game audition circumstantial or a sign he’s on the NHL fast track? The Jets love the way the Finnish defender thinks the game. Kristian Vesalainen was drafted for his high-end skill, but the Jets want to see him develop other attributes.
DID YOU KNOW: Center Jansen Harkins’ father, Todd, portrayed Hall of Famer and Soviet superstar Valeri Kharlamov in the 2004 movie Miracle.