Winnipeg Jets took care of business before the first game of the regular season, signing a contract with the best forward Kyle Connor for an eight-year, $96 million extension on Wednesday.
This is the richest contract in Jets franchise history, earned by one of the team's most consistent players. Drafted 17th overall by Winnipeg in 2015, Connor has scored 30 or more goals in seven of his eight full NHL seasons and has topped the 40-goal mark in two of his last four campaigns.
He has a career-high 56 assists and 97 points in 82 games in 2024-25 and ranks among the top 20 NHL skaters in goals (153) and points (331) as of 2021.
Winnipeg finished atop the league standings last season with 116 points, leading them only to a second-round playoff loss against Team Winnipeg. Dallas. Keeping Connor in the lineup was critical to the Jets' continued position as a contending team in the Western Conference. Winnipeg's core includes Hart and a Vezina Trophy-winning goaltender. Connor Hellebuycktop center Brand of creams and blue liner Josh Morrissey.
Connor, 28, is now one of four Jets, including Scheifele. Gabriel Vilardi And Neil Pionk – blocked until 2030.
This could be the start of a big year for Connor. He represented Team USA at the 4 Nations in February and was part of their team. Olympic Orientation Camp summer ahead NHL players return for 2026 Milan-Cortina Games.
Winnipeg will play its first game of the season Thursday at home against the Stars.
