Winnipeg Jets: Sami Niku’s Tenure is Set to End; Jets Open Cap Space

The Winnipeg Jets are only days away from starting their training camp, but last night they made an interesting roster move.

The Jets placed twenty-four-year-old defenseman, Sami Niku on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract.

This upcoming season was Niku’s last year of his two-year contract that he signed last October in the lead up to last season. His deal carried an average annual value (“AAV”) of $725,000.

There was no room for Sami Niku on the Winnipeg Jets defensive depth chart

After the Jets acquired both, veteran defensemen, Brenden Dillon and Nate Schmidt by way of trade during this offseason, and with Nathan Beaulieu returning from injury, there was really no spot for Niku on the Jets defensive corps.

Niku also had a great opportunity at the beginning of last season to solidify his spot on Winnipeg’s blue line, when key players were out injured, but he failed to impress. During the 2021 season, Niku featured in six games, had zero points, and a minus-three plus/minus.

Niku was originally drafted by the Jets in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft and over the course of four years with the franchise, he appeared in 54 games, had two goals, eight assists, and a minus-five plus/minus.

Chris Johnston (@reporterchris on Twitter) reported that Niku’s contract was mutually terminated by the Jets and Niku, while now Niku is hoping to sign with another NHL franchise.

By the Jets terminating Niku’s contract, this will open up some cap space and potentially a roster spot for the Jets as training camp begins on Thursday.

Winnipeg Jets Fans: What are your thoughts on the Winnipeg Jets buying out Sami Niku? Leave your comments below!

*All Stats Provided by the NHL and All Contract Information Provided by Cap Friendly*