Jets Rumors: Winnipeg's Dylan Samberg Has Earned A Long-Term Extension
The 26-year-old has developed into a reliable top-four defenseman, logging heavy minutes against elite competition while excelling on the penalty kill. His recent performance against the Calgary Flames—playing 22:35, finishing +2, and helping Winnipeg outchance Calgary 8-2 at five-on-five—shows a glimpse of his growing potential.
Head coach Scott Arniel praised his development, saying, “He’s become such a well-rounded defenseman… his ability to close, be physical, and be heavy on those guys makes such a difference.”
The Winnipeg Jets have a legit top-four defenceman in Dylan Samberg.
— Connor Hrabchak (@ConnorHrabchak1) January 29, 2025
The #NHLJets are 24-6-1 with him in the lineup this season.
He's also a pending RFA... safe to say it's crucial that Cheveldayoff gets him signed to a long-term deal this offseason.
📝: @JFreshHockey pic.twitter.com/D77I2PXUas
Samberg’s defensive metrics rank among the league’s best, drawing comparisons to top shutdown defensemen like Jaccob Slavin and Gustav Forsling.
Teammate Dylan DeMelo spoke on his potential, saying, “With the physical tools he has, I don’t see why he can’t be like them.”
His toughness was also evident when he played through a broken foot after blocking a Steven Stamkos shot, earning respect from teammates. “That’s pretty incredible,” said Neal Pionk. “It brings a little inspiration.”
His ability to break up plays, deny zone entries, and play against top lines has made him one of Winnipeg’s most dependable defensemen.
A little drop pass from Dylan Samberg to set up Gabriel Vilardi! 👀 pic.twitter.com/i7pnieu4vG
— NHL (@NHL) January 27, 2025
With the salary cap set to rise, a long-term deal in the $5 million range per season would make sense for both sides.
The Jets showed their belief in Samberg by letting Brenden Dillon walk last summer, and he has more than justified their confidence. An eight-year contract would provide stability for the team while becoming even more cost-effective as the cap increases.
“His best hockey is still ahead of him,” Arniel said. Winnipeg has built a strong defensive core, and locking up Samberg now would secure a key piece for years to come.
Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
