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Kyle Connor Likely to Stay With Winnipeg Jets: Report

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated Sep 17, 2025 1:26 PM ET

The Winnipeg Jets are coming off a strong season that saw them capture the Presidents' Trophy. However, the team faltered in the playoffs and now will be going forward to see how they can capture a Stanley Cup title.

But the front office is also dealing with the impending free agent of star Kyle Connor. Connor will be entering the final year of his current deal, and he has talked about an extension with Winnipeg in the past.

However, there has been some speculation that Connor could be looking forward to free agency, to at least see what else is out there for him.

Kyle Connor, Staying in Winnipeg?

According to NHL insider Darren Dreger, the Jets seem to have a priority to retain Connor, despite other reports about him potentially leaving the team. Dreger seems to believe that Winnipeg will be able to keep him long-term, which could go a long way to this team staying relevant around the league.

Darren Dreger: I don't think there's any doubt that the Winnipeg Jets have put a priority on extending Kyle Connor for as long as they can; and I don't doubt for a second that they will - Insider Trading (9/16)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) September 17, 2025

Keeping Connor in town should be a priority for the Jets, especially after the season that he just put together. Connor put up 41 goals and 56 assists last year, which was a career-high number of points for the star.

The veteran could believe he can get a massive offer in free agency, so waiting could be more beneficial to him. However, players also prefer to have some security on contracts, so extending with the Jets could also be in play.

If Connor were to signal to the Jets that he won't re-sign, Winnipeg should trade him to avoid losing him for nothing. But for now, it seems like the partnership is likely to continue for at least the next few years.

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

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