The Winnipeg Jets’ playoff run came to a heartbreaking end Saturday, May 17, falling 2-1 in overtime to the Dallas Stars in Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals. With the loss, the Jets were officially eliminated from the 2024-25 postseason. But Winnipeg is still in the spotlight, thanks to $42 million winger Nikolaj Ehlers.
With his contract set to expire and no extension in place, Ehlers could become one of the most sought-after free agents if he hits the market on July 1.
The Jets now face a crucial decision: re-sign one of their best playmakers or risk losing him for nothing. Around the league, whispers are growing that the Ottawa Senators may be the top contender for Ehlers. So why is the fit with Ottawa generating buzz? And could this decision reshape the outlook for both teams?
Senators Target Nikolaj Ehlers as Perfect Addition This Offseason
After completing a seven-year, $42 million contract, Nikolaj Ehlers is on track to hit the open market this summer. With nearly $17 million in cap space, the Senators are in a position to make a splash.
General manager Steve Staios has said he’s open to adding top-tier talent, and Ehlers would be a strong fit for a team that has only made the playoffs once since 2017.
Best of luck to Nikolaj Ehlers and Denmark today at the IIHF World Championship! 🇩🇰
Tune in at 1:00 PM CT on @TSN_Sports pic.twitter.com/GcuG4T6xcS
— Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets)
Sources suggest Ottawa is eyeing both Ehlers and Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett to boost its top-six forward group.
Adding a player like Ehlers would provide offensive punch, but it wouldn’t be without complications. The Sens are still negotiating with restricted free agents Fabbian Zetterlund and Tyler Kleven and may also look to re-sign veteran UFA Claude Giroux.
Still, Ottawa has the flexibility and pieces to take a step forward. With their 2025 first-round pick intact and key players like Drake Batherson on team-friendly deals, the Senators could attract more talent.
Ehlers, who scored 24 goals and tied his career high with 39 assists this past season, offers speed, creativity, and consistent production — all things Ottawa needs as it looks to level up with its young core.
After helping the Jets during their postseason run, Ehlers is expected to suit up for Team Denmark at the end of the 2025 IIHF Men’s World Championship. With Denmark and Germany tied at the bottom of Group B ahead of the knockout round, his arrival could be a timely boost.
Ehlers has shown he can make an impact at both the international and NHL levels — and that’s exactly the kind of presence Ottawa could use to push itself into contention.