Winnipeg Jets Considering Surprising Trade Target if Gustav Nyquist's Struggles Continue

Gustav Nyquist is recovering from a career-low 28-point season between Nashville and Minnesota, which has created uncertainty about whether the 35-year-old can bounce back with his new team.

With Nikolaj Ehlers traded away, Winnipeg requires dependable secondary scoring to keep its Stanley Cup window ajar.

Should Nyquist not return to his 75-point self from a couple of years ago, Alex Tuch would be an excellent substitute.

Alex Tuch is a Low-Risk, High-Reward Player as his Contract Expires After Next Season

The 29-year-old right-winger, who is in the last year of his seven-year contract at a reasonable $4.75 million cap hit, has accumulated 205 points in the last three seasons.

A big-bodied, scoring winger with a physical edge, he would slot in perfectly with Jonathan Toews and Cole Perfetti on Winnipeg's second line.

Drafted 18th overall by Minnesota in 2014, Tuch carved out a consistent four-year stretch with the Vegas Golden Knights, during which he received ample playoff experience.

In Buffalo, he has elevated his game to new heights, culminating in a career-best 36-goal, 79-point eff ort in his first complete season. Despite having contract talks with the Sabres, uncertainty about his future could make him available.

For Winnipeg, including a prospect like Nikita Chibrikov or Colby Barlow could be sufficient to get a deal done. Adding Tuch would provide the Jets with both insurance and a possible upgrade, keeping the top six a strength.

If Nyquist struggles, Tuch's combination of scoring, versatility, and playoff savvy might be just what Winnipeg needs to remain among the Western Conference elite.