The Winnipeg Jets enter the 2026‑27 season with roughly $4.5 million of cap space, a figure that comes with no dead‑cap penalties and gives the front office room to maneuver.
Two restricted free agents, Brad Lambert and Elias Salomonsson, are set to hit the market again, and both are expected to sign bridge deals in the $1.5 million to $2 million range.
Defenseman Josh Morrissey, meanwhile, is projected to see his next contract double, landing somewhere between $12.5 million and $15 million if he remains a top‑pairing blueliner.
Looking ahead to 2027‑28, the Jets will enjoy about $27 million of cap space, a cushion that general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff can use to add depth or address gaps in the lineup.
The upcoming unrestricted free agents Dylan DeMelo, Alex Iafallo and Cole Koepke are each slated for contracts that could reach $4.9 million, $3.666 million and $1.45 million respectively.
Viggo Bjorck’s bonus structure ties his earnings to his role, with the potential to exceed $2 million if he cracks the top six.
Navigating a Crowded Free‑Agent Market
The 2028‑29 outlook points to a massive $59.6 million of cap room, but the team will have to juggle the retention of high‑priced UFAs such as Dylan Samberg and Mario Ferraro, which could tighten the budget.
Long‑term deals for Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele provide stability; Connor’s $12 million extension through 2033‑34 is viewed as a value reset for a top‑line wing, while Scheifele’s $8.5 million contract remains a bargain through 2030‑31.
Gabriel Vilardi, whose current deal is non‑max because of past injuries, could see a raise if he continues to produce at a high level.
Neal Pionk’s contract is deemed reasonable for a second‑ or third‑pairing defenseman, with only a modest raise likely if he continues to log 20 minutes per game.
Goalie Stuart Skinner’s agreement reflects his versatility, allowing the club to shift him between backup and starter as needed.
The broader financial picture hinges on how the Jets balance a bumper crop of 2028 free agents with the desire to keep core pieces like Morrissey and Samberg in the fold.
Managing the cap will require strategic contract structuring and prudent spending, but the organization appears positioned to remain competitive while preserving flexibility for future moves.