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NHL Insider Reveals Stark Comparison Between Kyle Connor and Nikolaj Ehlers' Contract Negotiations

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jul 29, 2025 4:26 PM ET

Insider David Pagnotta revealed that the contract talks between Kyle Connor and the Jets are much further along at this stage than the ones involving Nikolaj Ehlers.

One of the prevailing storylines heading into the Winnipeg Jets' upcoming season is that of superstar winger Kyle Connor.

As the final season of his seven-year, $7.14 million AAV contract approaches, Kyle Connor is due for a hefty raise after putting up a career-best 97-point campaign.

Insiders suggest the Jets are in a better position with Connor than they were last year with Nikolaj Ehlers.

Contract talks with Connor are further along than where they were with Ehlers at this point, suggesting a greater chance he stays, per The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta.

Still, it won't be simple. Connor is estimated to be paid $11-12 million annually, and Winnipeg currently has just $10.5 million in projected cap space.

The Jets Will Also Need to Re-Sign Adam Lowry After Next Season

Captain Adam Lowry will also require an extension next season, complicating the equation for GM Kevin Cheveldayoff. Rumors of Connor's possible departure, specifically with his Michigan background tying him to Detroit, have swirled for years.

But traction in discussions provides optimism that the Jets can keep their leading scorer and not relive the Ehlers scenario.

If the Jets commit long-term to Connor and Lowry, they'll likely lean more on internal, inexpensive options to fill out the roster.

That's a template that's succeeded for cap-strapped contenders like Edmonton, as they look to younger talents like Isaac Howard to take on bigger roles.

Winnipeg could follow suit by giving increased roles to Manitoba Moose prospects like Brad Lambert and Nikita Chibrikov. Keeping Connor while building around young players might be the Jets' best chance of remaining competitive in the coming years.

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

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