Are the Winnipeg Jets Ready to Unleash Kristian Vesalainen
The Winnipeg Jets aren’t done shifting around, as it would seem. They didn’t add a player from outside the organization, sure, but they did at least do something.
While I can’t be certain of the Winnipeg Jets‘ motives in their entirety, the signing of Kristian Vesalainen to an entry-level contract means something.
He’s on their radar, at the least. The move stateside shows that Winnipeg is willing to give him a shot. Vesalainen is an option. Which is good. I’m one step closer to my lineup predictions coming true.
Vesalainen is by far the best prospect in the Jets system, and it’s exciting to see him so close to getting his chance. He’ll play the entire regular season at age 19, so it’s still early, but hey, I’m excited.
This doesn’t mean he’ll be on the opening night roster, however. I mean, I’m almost certain he won’t be, despite predicting it myself. I believe he’ll play, however. I believe if he does not play at least ten games at the NHL level, his ELC extends another season.
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Don’t quote me, I didn’t write the CBA. And I’m too lazy to read it. Maybe one day. Until then, you get marginally educated Kyle. Enjoy.
But no, Vesalainen will be a fun test. He’s sure to contribute at the NHL level at some point, and while he is a top prospect, nothing is set in stone. Prospects bust, it happens.
But! Kevin Cheveldayoff has an exquisite record when it comes to first round picks. And while people are high on this one, a year after his draft date, it’s not as easy as Chevy has had it in the past. A top ten pick and 24th overall are two different animals.
But I love Vesalainen’s game. He’s fast enough, has good hands, a great shot. Oh, and he has loads of confidence. He’s a little less arrogant and a little more ‘I can handle it’ type guys. He knows he can succeed in the NHL today, and he just might be right.
I can’t wait to see him get the opportunity to prove it. It would be a heck of a thing for this team to produce another high-level player from the draft.
Patrik Laine's Beard is Very Wrong in NHL 19. dark. Next
Can’t wait for the Rangers and Blackhawks to be signing these guys in FA in a few years. [groans].