NHL Rumors: Winnipeg Jets Considering Major Trade

The Winnipeg Jets may be shaking things up. Reports have surfaced from hockey insider Frank Seravalli, stating the Jets are exploring the trade market for captain Blake Wheeler. The Jets legend no longer has a full no-movement clause and has recently submitted a list of five teams he'd be willing to join.

Wheeler is signed through the 2023-24 season at $8.25 million per and is coming off a year where he scored 17 goals and 60 points in 65 games. It would be quite the change in Winnipeg, bringing in a new coach and shortly after trading their captain.

The 35-year-old Wheeler is the franchise leader in assists (511) and points (757). As for potential teams, the Boston Bruins, New York Rangers, Carolina Hurricanes are three teams who may be on Wheeler's list and make sense from the team's perspective.

Chuck Fletcher: "I do think there will be quite a few trades this week."
— Mike Morreale (@mikemorrealeNHL) July 6, 2022

The Jets also have defenseman Brenden Dillon who appears to be drawing some trade interest. Considering he's making $3.9 million this season and next, it's unlikely he and Wheeler would be packaged together. Dillon's a stay at home defender who loves to mix it up in the dirty areas of the ice. With Logan Stanley ready for more ice-time, moving Dillon makes sense for the hockey club.

Wheeler on the other hand is going to be a complex trade. He's an impact player and you can't miss on the return and take a step back organizationally. If Cheveldayoff doesn't get this deal right, after bringing in a new head coach, the pilot seat will be heating up.