Winnipeg Jets: Three Offseason Cost-Saving Measures

I know I just said the Winnipeg Jets need defensive depth, and now I’m championing possibly letting two defensemen go. But it’s the money that matters.

Jacob Trouba is a really good NHL defenseman. Tyler Myers, for all his flaws, is pretty solid as well. So why should the Jets ditch both of them?

Well, it seems they’re not dedicated to Trouba. They’ve had issues with a long-term deal for as long as I can remember, but he’s still and RFA. They should keep him if they can, but I’d be averse to a long-term contract as well. Another quick deal would be my preference. If someone wants to pony up for him, let him walk.

Simple as that. He’s good. He is. But he’s not irreplaceable. And as long as Josh Morrissey and Dustin Byfuglien exist, he’ll be the third best defenseman on the team. Not worth paying fat stacks for.

As for Myers, I’m really not sure what kind of contract he’ll demand, as he’s an unrestricted free agent. But I’m okay with the Jets not finding out. I’d rather them look to sign someone like Michael Del Zotto.

Or, filed away in the “Wishful Thinking” category, the Jets let both defenseman walk and pay up to bring Erik Karlsson to Winnipeg. What a dream that would be.

Anyway, if the Jets aren’t getting studs on the blueline, don’t pay extra for youth. Give in and sign guys like Deryk Engelland or Anton Stralman if they’re more affordable, and hope the inevitable decline staves itself off long enough for you to contend.

Myers was solid for the Jets, but he was never worth his contract. I don’t want the same to be true of Trouba.