NHL Rumours: Future of Winnipeg Jets Forward

Analysis: Appleton has been a very important player for the Jets since he came back over from the Seattle Kraken. He’s been playing on the right wing with the captain Adam Lowry for the past three seasons. This season they combined with Nino Niederreiter to become one of the top shutdown lines in the NHL.

Appleton did have a tough miss in the season-ending Game 6. That glaring chance that he missed against Dallas “haunts” him. However, he did play an important role for the Jets. Ates said that Appleton recorded the fifth-most ice time of any Winnipeg forward in Game 6 against the Dallas Stars. However, there have been some worries about the 29-year-old forward’s offensive game. The Green Bay, Wis. native totaled 10 goals and 22 points in 71 games this season.

Appleton isn’t known for his offensive prowess, but has been played higher up in the lineup than maybe some think he should be. However, his defensive value cannot be denied and it could get him some looks in the free agent market. Appleton could provide some strong depth in the bottom-six of a lineup.

What It Means

The forward recently became a new father and is looking for term with his next deal. Appleton likely wants stability and a chance to put down roots. As a new parent, this seems like a valid reason to seek a deal that will be at least a few seasons.

Appleton did say he would like to be a Jet. “If we could work it out, I’d be happy to be a Jet,” he said to the media. The veteran forward said that he loves playing in Winnipeg and he’s become a fan favourite. In Ates’ article, Appleton added that he loves his teammates and the Jets organization.

However, talks have yet to begin between the two sides. There is still plenty of time before free agency opens up on July 1. Appleton could sign a new contract before that and take his name off the market. Both sides might be letting things digest before going into contract talks. Winnipeg had an emotionally tough end to the season and there may need to be some time before trying to hash out a deal.

There are things that Jets General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff needs to sort out. However, finding a spot in the lineup for Appleton could be a priority.