The season has barely begun, and the Winnipeg Jets are already facing their first major test. The fractured wrist of defenseman Dylan Samberg isn’t just a tough break for the young blueliner; it’s an immediate stress test for a defensive corps that has questions to answer. While management won’t panic, you can bet GM Kevin Cheveldayoff is already working the phones and evaluating if his internal options are enough to stay afloat in the NHL’s most punishing division.
Samberg’s absence until mid-to-late November creates a significant void. He’s a reliable, mobile defender who logs important minutes. Now, the spotlight swings directly onto the Jets’ depth pieces.
Can the Current Depth Chart Handle the Pressure?
We’re going to see a heavy dose of veterans like Haydn Fleury, Luke Schenn, and Colin Miller, alongside Logan Stanley. While these are all capable NHLers, they are quintessential third-pairing defensemen. Asking them to consistently take on elevated roles against the firepower of teams like the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars is a massive gamble. The Central Division is a war of attrition; you cannot afford to have a weak link on your back end, as it will be ruthlessly exposed. A shaky defense puts immense pressure on your goaltender, and while Connor Hellebuyck is arguably the best in the world, even he has his limits.
This is why reports of the Jets “keeping tabs on the defensive market” should come as no surprise. This isn’t just about surviving Samberg’s injury—it’s about the bigger picture. The Jets’ aspirations are not simply to make the playoffs; they are built to make a deep run for the Stanley Cup. The current group might be able to tread water for a month, but are they the six guys you want going into a seven-game series against the league’s elite? That’s the real question Cheveldayoff has to answer, and this injury has forced him to find that answer sooner rather than later.
Your Ultimate Winnipeg Jets Fan Hub
Looking to find the latest Winnipeg Jets news and trade buzz? Need an edge in your Online Hockey Pool for cash prizes? Wondering what channel is the Jets game on TV today? We have you covered for all of it. Add nhltraderumor.com to your bookmarks so you never miss an update, and sign up for our newsletter below for rumors delivered right to your inbox.
