Kyle Connor’s clock is ticking, and the Winnipeg Jets know it. With just one season left on his current deal, the franchise faces a decision that could reshape its entire operation. The question isn’t whether Connor deserves elite money, it’s whether Winnipeg can afford to let him walk.
What Will Kyle Connor’s Next Contract Cost the Jets?
Insider Frank Seravalli has hinted that Connor’s next contract might range between $11 million and $12 million per year. That’s elite money, but it reflects Connor’s growing impact as one of the NHL’s top scorers.
Frank Seravalli: Re Kyle Connor: I would peg that next contract somewhere between $11 and $12 million AAV; obviously a huge priority for the Jets to get done – Bleacher Report (7/22)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) July 23, 2025
Connor is coming off a career-best campaign, putting up 97 points with 41 goals. Those numbers aren’t just good, they’re cornerstone stats. He’s not just a top winger for Winnipeg; he’s been the guy up front since becoming a regular in 2017.
He’s 28 now and will hit 29 in December. His current cap hit sits at just over $7.1 million. For what he brings, that’s a bargain. However, going forward, things are changing. Winnipeg knows the clock is ticking, and if they want to keep him, they’ll need to pay up.
The Jets aren’t in a bad spot cap-wise, with just over $10.5 million in space. A few short-term deals are also expiring soon. That flexibility gives them room to negotiate, but not unlimited time.
How Will Winnipeg Balance Multiple Contract Negotiations?
While Connor takes center stage, the Jets are also juggling Cole Perfetti’s contract situation. The young forward is expected to sign a bridge deal, but even that needs careful planning. Winnipeg has to manage both players without compromising their depth or cap health.
There’s also the added tension of retaining American stars in Canadian markets. It’s been a challenge in the past. Tax burdens, lifestyle preferences, and market exposure all play into the equation. Like other Canadian teams, Winnipeg has seen players walk away for those reasons.
That’s why locking up Connor now, before free agency becomes a threat, feels urgent. Letting him test the market in 2026 could be a major blow, especially for a franchise still trying to stay competitive in a tough Western Conference.
The risk? If Connor’s ask creeps past $12 million AAV, Winnipeg may have no choice but to meet it. But this isn’t just about salary. It’s about direction, identity, and vision.
A long-term deal would send a message that the Jets aren’t here to rebuild, they’re here to push forward. For a team walking the line between contention and transition, that message might be worth every penny.
