Winnipeg Jets: What to Expect from Riley Nash This Season
The Winnipeg Jets made some huge trades this offseason and also had to sign four restricted free agents, therefore they did not make a big splash in the unrestricted free agent market.
The Jets front office made many depth signings, but they did complete one signing of a player that has an immense amount of NHL experience.
That player is eleven-year NHL veteran, Riley Nash, and the Jets signed the thirty-two-year-old forward to a one-year contract with an average annual value of $750,000.
Riley Nash will be a great bottom-six option and veteran presence for the Winnipeg Jets
Nash is not a player who scores a tremendous amount of points, as he has only scored ten or more goals in a season twice throughout his career, but he is someone who does the little things right.
The former 2007 first-round draft pick is the veteran presence the Jets may need on the fourth line, considering the Jets lost all of the members of their 2021 fourth line in free agency, and he will most likely center that group.
But before Nash was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs last year, he was promoted to the Columbus Blue Jackets’ top line and played well in that role. Therefore, Nash could be a versatile option for the Jets if injuries or suspensions occur during the full 82-game season.
Nash may also feature on the Jets penalty kill and help play a role in shutting down opposing goal scorers.
It will be interesting to see who Paul Maurice and the Jets coaching staff put Nash on a line with when training camp begins next Thursday, September 23. To get ready for training camp, click the link here to read a great article by Dan St. Joseph covering three compelling storylines to watch for Winnipeg’s camp.
Winnipeg Jets Fans: Where do you think is the best lineup spot for Riley Nash during this upcoming season? Leave your comments below!
*All Stats Provided by the NHL*