The wind whipping across Portage and Main carries whispers of optimism these days, as negotiations between the Winnipeg Jets and star winger Kyle Connor appear to be moving in a positive direction. Sources close to the organization suggest both sides are eyeing a long-term extension that would keep the prolific goal-scorer in Manitoba for what could be the remainder of his prime years.
Connor, who has established himself as one of the NHL’s most consistent scoring threats with six consecutive 25+ goal seasons, is entering the final year of his seven-year, $50-million contract signed back in 2019. His importance to the Jets cannot be overstated – last season he notched 34 goals and 31 assists in just 66 games before a knee injury sidelined him in April.
“We’re having productive conversations,” Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff told reporters during last week’s community skate event at Canada Life Centre. “Kyle has been a cornerstone of this team, and our goal has always been to ensure he remains a Jet for many years to come. These things take time, but I’m encouraged by where we stand.”
Connor’s agent, Rich Evans, has maintained a characteristically low profile during negotiations, but hockey insider Elliotte Friedman reported on his “32 Thoughts” podcast that the framework being discussed involves a term of “at least six years” with an annual value potentially exceeding $9 million per season.
What makes these talks particularly significant is their backdrop – a Jets organization that seemed on the verge of a rebuild just 18 months ago has transformed into a Western Conference contender. Last season’s surprising 52-24-6 record under coach Rick Bowness has shifted the franchise trajectory, creating an environment where retaining core talent has become the priority.
“When you look at what Kyle brings – the consistency, the professionalism, the pure goal-scoring ability – these are the players you build around,” noted TSN analyst Craig Button during a recent broadcast. “Winnipeg recognizes they have something special here, both in Connor’s talent and the team chemistry they’ve built.”
For Jets fans who’ve endured their share of departures – from the original franchise in 1996 to more recent exits like Jacob Trouba and Patrik Laine – securing Connor’s services represents more than just smart hockey business. It signals stability for a market that has sometimes struggled with the perception of being overlooked by star players.
Inside the locker room, teammates have made their feelings clear. Captain Adam Lowry didn’t mince words when asked about Connor’s importance last month: “KC is irreplaceable for us. What he does on the ice speaks for itself, but his leadership and the way he carries himself – that’s something you can’t just replace. We all want him here long-term, that’s no secret.”
The numbers certainly justify whatever premium Winnipeg might pay. Since entering the league, Connor ranks 8th among all NHL players with 210 goals, despite playing fewer games than most others in that elite company. His five 30+ goal campaigns put him in rarefied air among active players.
What’s particularly encouraging for Jets supporters is Connor’s own expressed desire to remain in Winnipeg. At last season’s year-end media availability, the Michigan native spoke glowingly about the organization and community.
“This place has become home,” Connor said, bundled in a Jets parka as Manitoba’s spring reluctantly arrived. “The fans, the guys in this room, the entire organization – there’s something special happening here. I’ve always felt valued and supported in Winnipeg, and that means everything.”
The current contract discussions come at a pivotal moment for the franchise. With Mark Scheifele and Connor Hellebuyck both signing eight-year extensions last October, locking in Connor would secure the team’s core for the foreseeable future. According to CapFriendly, the Jets have approximately $12.7 million in projected cap space for the 2025-26 season, providing sufficient room to accommodate Connor’s new deal.
Provincial finance minister Adrien Sala couldn’t help commenting on the negotiations during a budget announcement last week, underlining the team’s importance to Manitoba’s identity. “The economic and cultural impact of the Jets can’t be overstated,” Sala remarked. “When our stars commit to Winnipeg long-term, it sends a message about the kind of community we’re building here.”
For a franchise that returned to Canada in 2011 after the Atlanta Thrashers’ relocation, establishing this kind of stability represents the fulfillment of a promise made to fans who endured 15 years without NHL hockey. The passionate crowds at Canada Life Centre, famous for their “True North!” call during the national anthem, have embraced Connor as one of their own.
Local sporting goods stores report Connor’s #81 jersey remains among their top sellers, even as contract uncertainty might typically dampen such purchases. “People here believe he’s staying,” said Tom Friesen, manager at River City Sports on St. Mary’s Road. “They’re investing in those jerseys because they see him as part of Winnipeg’s future.”
As training camp approaches, both sides appear motivated to finalize terms. With Connor eligible to sign an extension since July 1st, the lack of an announcement suggests details are still being refined rather than any fundamental disagreement.
For now, Jets fans can take comfort in the positive signals emerging from these negotiations – a stark contrast from the uncertainty that surrounded the franchise just two seasons ago. In a league where star players increasingly dictate their destinations, Connor’s apparent commitment to Winnipeg represents both a hockey victory and a validation of the market itself.
