3 Potential Trade Destinations for Jets' Blake Wheeler

The Winnipeg Jets are working with Blake Wheeler to facilitate a trade. The franchise will be undergoing massive changes this summer as Jets' general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff changes up the core. Wheeler, 36, is the team's former captain and has spent 13 seasons in Winnipeg.

Pierre LeBrun of TSN reports Wheeler's departure could result in a trade or buyout. If the Jets go the buy out route, there will be a $2.75 million cap hit the next two seasons. As far as trade destinations go, here's three teams who could make Wheeler's approval list:

Boston Bruins

A team in cap hell, the Bruins would need the Jets to retain half of Wheeler's salary and take on a bad contract like Mike Reilly. Boston will be undergoing their own changes this summer and are in the market for another top-six winger.

Colorado Avalanche

While the core of the Avs are in their prime they are going to be going for it every season. Gabriel Landeskog won't be playing next season and Colorado will be in the market for a top-six forward. Wheeler recorded 55 points in 72 games and even though he's getting up their in age, he can still produce at a high level and give a dressing room another leader.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes are in the market for size and offense and the 6-foot-5 Wheeler could be an interesting piece to add. While he's not the gamebreaker Carolina is desperate for, he's a solid veteran addition who like Brent Burns, could join the 'Canes and make a huge difference. Wheeler's put up 45 points in 65 Stanley Cup Playoff games and would get another chance to win the Cup in Carolina next season.