Because the NHL offseason unfolds, and phrase is that Adrian Kempe is doubtlessly asking for as a lot as $10 million per season on an extension with the Los Angeles Kings, questions in Winnipeg encompass future contract negotiations with star ahead Kyle Connor.
Throughout a latest episode of NHL Tonight on NHL Network, analysts Invoice Pidto, Mike Rupp, and Stu Grimson advised Connor and his camp are watching different comparable winger contract talks “very, very carefully.” Each Kempe and Connor are eligible to signal extensions now, and with Connor’s deal carried out on the finish of subsequent season, he’s anticipated to command a significant extension. Nonetheless, not like Kempe who needs to stick with the Kings, there may be hypothesis that Connor is likely to be open to going to Detroit.
The end result of Kempe’s deal might play a key function in figuring out what it’ll take the Jets to maintain their winger.
Connor Suits the Second-Highest Tier of UFA
Rupp famous that whereas superstars like Connor McDavid will finally reset the league’s monetary ceiling, high-end wingers signing new offers quickly might set up the following tier. “If somebody will get $10 million, what does that imply for [Connor]?” Rupp requested. The implication: Connor might justifiably ask for extra.
Grimson agreed, suggesting that early offers within the $9–10 million vary might function a benchmark. “Connor deserves a big step above that in his final AAV,” he added.
Connor, 28, is coming off a 97-point season and has constantly been among the many NHL’s best forwards. He’s a close to lock to attain 30-plus targets each season and with the wage cap anticipated to rise and the Jets desirous to retain prime expertise, Connor’s subsequent contract might simply exceed the $10 million mark—particularly if different gamers in his vary signal early.
Whereas 2026 is anticipated to characteristic a stacked free-agent class, groups might look to safe their stars earlier than competitors heats up. The Jets and Connor will likely be paying consideration.
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