The Winnipeg Jets only have thirteen forwards on their current roster and they will have a full revamp of their fourth line for next season because all of the Jets’ fourth line players from last season have departed the franchise as free agents and have signed with other teams.
The Jets will have options to fill those roles from within their organization with players like Jansen Harkins, Kristian Vesalainen, David Gustafsson, Dominic Toninato, and others. The one thing that is consistent among all of these players is their lack of considerable NHL experience.
Winnipeg does have a chance to bring a player to the club who can be a strong veteran presence after the final year of his contract was reportedly bought out by the Detroit Red Wings. That player is Frans Nielsen, but the question is whether it makes sense for the Jets to sign him?
Should the Winnipeg Jets pursue Frans Nielsen?
The thirty-seven-year-old Nielsen is coming into the twilight of his NHL career. Nielsen is not known as a player to light up the scoresheet, but he is known to play to do all the little things right.
Throughout his career, Nielsen has received votes for the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy eight times and the Selke Memorial Trophy seven times. He is strong in the defensive zone and kills penalties well.
Nielsen can be another veteran presence to the Jets’ bottom six that also added Riley Nash this offseason.
I do think Nielsen can play a role that was similar to Trevor Lewis from last season. It would make sense for Winnipeg to sign him for near the league minimum and in return, he can be a great depth option for Paul Maurice and the Jets coaching staff.
Only time will tell regarding how the Jets will fill the final pieces of their roster for the 2021-2022 season. Check back to our site for all your Winnipeg Jets offseason news!
Winnipeg Jets Fans: Should the Winnipeg Jets sign Frans Nielsen? Leave your comments below!
*All Stats Provided by the NHL*