Jets Rumors: Winnipeg Commited To Bringing Back 2 Key Players Next Season

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

The Winnipeg Jets are expected to retain defenseman Luke Schenn and make a strong push to re-sign Neal Pionk, according to Murat Ates of The Athletic. 

Schenn, 35, was acquired at the trade deadline and is signed through the 2025-26 season with a $2.75 million AAV. Ates noted the Jets are “thrilled” with Schenn’s physical play and veteran presence, particularly in front of the net and in the dressing room. 

“Schenner has been a very vocal guy since he got here,” forward Morgan Barron said, praising Schenn’s leadership and communication on the ice.

Meanwhile, Pionk, 29, is eligible for unrestricted free agency on July 1 but is expected to be offered an extension. 

Ates believes Winnipeg values Pionk’s offensive contributions, chemistry with Dylan Samberg, and role in the team’s culture. “They value Pionk’s offensive ability, his success alongside Dylan Samberg, his contribution to team culture and his love of Winnipeg,” Ates wrote. 

Despite some defensive inconsistencies in recent seasons, Pionk’s numbers have improved significantly when paired with Samberg, and the Jets appear confident in that tandem's continued effectiveness.

Pionk has also been recognized for his resilience off the ice, earning the Jets’ nomination for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy after the tragic death of his best friend, Adam Johnson. 

Currently sidelined with a lower-body injury, Pionk has tallied nine goals and 37 points in 66 games this season.

Photo Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

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