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Hurricanes' Nikolaj Ehlers Reveals What Led Him to Jets Exit

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jul 7, 2025 8:56 AM ET

The Winnipeg Jets finished the 2024–25 season with the league’s best regular-season record but crashed out of the playoffs before making it to the conference finals for the third consecutive season.

Then, a few days into free agency, star forward Nikolaj Ehlers left Winnipeg to sign with the Carolina Hurricanes as an unrestricted free agent.

The 29-year-old forward signed a six-year, $51 million contract with the Hurricanes in free agency, ending a decade-long run with the Jets.

Ehlers spoke candidly about what led to his decision to leave the only franchise he had played for until this summer, making it clear that the choice to open a new chapter was not about dissatisfaction with the Jets, but rather about personal growth and facing a new challenge.

Nikolaj Ehlers spoke for himself on Saturday, explaining his decision to leave the #NHLJets and sign with Carolina.

"I told (the Jets) they didn't do anything wrong. I loved it there."

STORY ⤵️https://t.co/Gb00Ltm3r9
— Murat Ates (@WPGMurat) July 5, 2025

“I told (the Jets) they didn’t do anything wrong,” Ehlers said. “I loved it there. I love the organization, the people in it, the guys. They became family. The city of Winnipeg, the fans, everyone that’s played in Winnipeg knows how incredible it is to play there.

“For me, it was more about trying something new and challenging myself.”

Ehlers said that it was a hard decision to make, and that his bond with Winnipeg remains deep.

“Very emotional,” he added. “I’m also sad to be leaving an organization that helped me achieve my dream of being an NHL player.”

Even after another postseason collapse and the third straight playoff disappointment, Ehlers acknowledged the Jets “always did the best we could, but sometimes it just wasn’t enough.”

Carolina’s fit made the difference for Ehlers, even though the Hurricanes haven't fared much better in the playoffs.

“Carolina was really interested, and you want to play for a team that really wants you," Ehlers said. "It was a tough decision to leave Winnipeg, but I’m really looking forward to this next chapter."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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