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Kyle Connor's Next Contact Will be Similar to Kings Star Forward's Deal, per NHL Analyst

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jul 20, 2025 1:05 PM ET

NHL analyst Mike Rupp believes that Jets' Kyle Connor's next contract will mimic that of Kings star forward Adrian Kempe, and it won't come cheap.

During the July 18 edition of 'NHL Tonight' on the NHL Network, analysts Bill Pidto, Mike Rupp, and Stu Grimson analyzed how Adrian Kempe's possible contract talks could impact the future of Kyle Connor with the Winnipeg Jets.

As both players are close to the end of their existing contracts and free agency is looming in 2026, everyone is watching Adrian Kempe's next deal closely.

Adrian Kempe's next contract could set the baseline for similar players

While he might not be a Connor McDavid-type to reset the market, Kempe's contract will set a new standard that will affect others in his range, most notably Kyle Connor.

Connor, with 97 points last season, is the more productive of the two players, and his camp will be keeping a close eye on Kempe's figure, as they will want something very similar to his.

'So, a player like Adrian Kempe could set the bar. And I think there's guys like Kyle Connor and his camp are watching this very, very closely. I mean, you look at what he's done, he got 97 points. You're saying, all right, I hope he gets 10, because if he gets 10, I mean, what does that mean for me? And the Winnipeg Jets are watching this situation too, very closely, because you want to obviously get him and get him at the right dollar, whatever you think that is.'
- Mike Rupp

If Kempe can secure a contract in the $9-10 million area, it makes Connor's argument for an even higher number that much stronger. The Jets are probably following things closely as they consider what keeping their star winger for the long haul might cost.

Stu Grimson emphasized that Kempe's contract could serve as a key comparison point during Connor's negotiations.

Even if Kempe comes in just under $10 million, it would provide Connor's camp with leverage to push for a significant increase in average annual value (AAV), given his stronger performance.

As witnessed during the 2025 offseason, numerous elite pending free agents chose to re-sign with their respective clubs, in part because of the escalating salary cap.

That could be the case again in 2026, yet the initial future blockbuster signing of Kempe will establish a baseline.

If Kempe is that player, his agreement could redefine the market for elite forwards, and Connor could be sending him a million thanks for doing so.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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