Ever since Erik Karlsson announced his hefty asking price, things with him and the Senators have gone downhill. There’s reports that he’s definitely on the trade block, and that the Sens aren’t willing to pay him what he wants. He submitted a 10 team no trade clause as a “formality” but nobody does that unless something is going on. I think the Winnipeg Jets would be a good team to make a deal for him, and I have reasons to back it.
Making an actual run
Aside from Vegas, the Jets/Thrashers are the only franchise to have never won a playoff game. The Jets would likely want to put that to an end and make a deep playoff run. Our problem is that we have such an injury prone D-core, and need another solid player to rely on. That player could, and should be Erik Karlsson.
Karlsson not only would bring assurance to their back end, but would help produce way more than they already are. He’s the top defenseman in the league (although he is having a rough year). If the Jets were to trade for Karlsson, it’d likely not be just him coming over to the Winnipeg Jets. A few non injured veterans thrown into our young lineup could really be a great turnout playoff wise.
Enticing players to trade
When I think Winnipeg Jets, I think a team heavily stacked with solid players. Young guys like Laine, Scheifele, and Hellebuyck. Veteran guys like Byfuglien, Wheeler, and Little. We have guys who can compete. We also have a few guys that are nearing the end of their days as a Jet. Those guys are obviously good, but I think having Erik Karlsson and some other assets would be more crucial/valuable to the Winnipeg Jets organization.
At the end of this year, Jacob Trouba’s contract ends, and it’s clear that he wants a huge raise. I wouldn’t be too surprised if he had another situation where he holds out on the Jets and expects far too much. Honestly I don’t think Trouba really even wants to be here. It’s definitely time for the Jets to part ways.
Tobias Enstrom is on the final year of his contract with the Winnipeg Jets. He’s 33 years old, and is making $5.75 Million per season. He won’t be making as much on his next deal, but I can see him asking for far more than he’s worth. If Winnipeg could work a little sign and trade deal, and pawn him off to the Sens, he could also be an asset in a trade.
Here’s a few other guys that could be smaller additional pieces in a deal:
Marko Dano, who hasn’t been playing at all and would make sense to deal away. Mason Appleton, who is an interesting prospect but could make good trade bait. JC Lipon, who hasn’t quite blossomed, and could look for a fresh start in Ottawa.
Next: Erik Karlsson should be a Winnipeg Jet - Part 2
Make sure to check out part two to view the end of this article!