Jets’ standout forward, Kyle Connor, has inked a substantial contract extension to continue his tenure in Winnipeg. The team confirmed on Wednesday that they have reached an agreement with Connor on an eight-year deal worth $96 million, equating to an annual average value of $12 million. This new contract will come into effect next season following the expiration of his current one, marking it as the most lucrative deal in the franchise’s history.
Approximately two years ago, the Jets secured similar seven-year contracts for forward Mark Scheifele and goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, each with an average annual value of $8.5 million. Those extensions took effect last season. Selected as the Jets’ first-round pick (17th overall) in the 2015 NHL draft, 28-year-old Connor has risen to prominence as one of the league’s premier scorers. Notably, he tallied 41 goals and 56 assists for the Jets in the previous season, boasting a plus-17 defensive rating. His 97 points led the team and placed him seventh overall in the league.
Throughout the postseason, Connor played in all 13 games for the Jets, topping the team in points (17) and assists (12) while also sharing the team lead in goals with five. His exceptional performance earned him a spot on the NHL first all-star team. Since making his full-time NHL debut in the 2017-18 season, Connor has consistently achieved over 30 goals in seven seasons and surpassed 60 points on six occasions. With 582 points (284 goals, 298 assists) in 613 career NHL games, Connor’s prowess on the ice is undeniable.
Moreover, in 2022, the Michigan native was honored with the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy for his outstanding sportsmanship, gentlemanly conduct, and remarkable playing ability. This recent contract extension solidifies Connor’s pivotal role within the Winnipeg Jets and underscores his standing as a key asset for the team’s future success.