Winnipeg Jets Defenseman Signs Overseas

The Winnipeg Jets have lost one of their prospects, as Leon Gawanke has signed a four-year contract with Adler Mannheim in the German DEL.

Gawanke just put together an impressive season with the Manitoba Moose, as he had 20 goals to go along with 45 points in 68 games. Although he produced well offensively from the point this campaign, it never led to a call-up from the Jets. In fact, that was the case in each of the four seasons he's been with the organization. 

Now, Gawanke is heading back home to Germany and will have the opportunity to play for one of the best clubs there. When noting that it is a four-year contract, this could be an indicator that his North American career is over. 

If the Jets send Gawanke a qualifying offer, they will hold onto his NHL rights until 2027. We will need to wait and see if they do just that from here. Until then, here's to hoping that Gawanke puts up some big numbers back home over the next four years.

photo credit: © Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports