The NHL trade rumor mill is buzzing with talks of a significant move involving the Winnipeg Jets and the Chicago Blackhawks. According to NHL insider Nick Kypreos, the Jets are actively looking to trade winger Nikolaj Ehlers along with promising prospect Rutger McGroarty.
The Blackhawks have shown considerable interest in both players, making this a potential blockbuster deal that could reshape both teams.
Winnipeg Jets and Chicago Blackhawks Discuss Blockbuster Trade
The proposed trade package from the Jets would send Ehlers and McGroarty to Chicago in exchange for defenseman Connor Murphy, forward Lukas Reichel, and a 2024 first-round pick from the New York Islanders.
For the Jets, the motivation behind moving Ehlers stems from a need to bolster their defensive lineup. Ehlers, who has been a dynamic offensive force for the Jets, played all 82 games last season but saw his offensive numbers dip slightly to 0.74 points per game, the lowest since the 2018-19 season. Despite this, his positive possession metrics and shot quality remain valuable assets, making him an attractive option for teams looking to enhance their offensive depth.
McGroarty, on the other hand, represents a key piece for the future. The 2022 first-round pick has shown significant promise in his development, and the Blackhawks’ interest in him signals their intent to build a competitive team around young star Connor Bedard. Adding Ehlers could also provide a veteran presence to guide the young talent in Chicago.
From Chicago’s perspective, acquiring Ehlers and McGroarty could fast-track their rebuild. Connor Murphy, while a steady defensive presence, might not fit into their long-term plans, and Lukas Reichel, a promising forward, still needs to prove himself at the NHL level. The inclusion of a 2024 first-round pick sweetens the deal, giving the Jets an opportunity to add another top prospect to their roster.
Stay Updated with the Latest Winnipeg Jets News
For the latest updates on the Winnipeg Jets, including trade rumors and game schedules, visit our website nhltraderumor.com. Don’t miss out on our online hockey pools and find out what channel the Blackhawks game is on TV today. Bookmark nhltraderumor.com and sign up for our newsletter to stay informed on all things NHL.
This potential trade scenario highlights the strategic moves both teams are considering to achieve their goals. Whether the trade materializes remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly has the potential to make a significant impact on both franchises moving forward.
