The NHL free agency period is drawing attention to star forward Mitch Marner, but teams unable or unwilling to secure him are likely preparing backup options. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman identified Winnipeg Jets pending free agent Nikolaj Ehlers as a primary alternative for clubs seeking a skilled winger.
On the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman noted that while many focus on Marner, some teams might bypass him and pursue Ehlers directly as part of their Mitch Marner free agency alternatives and fallback plans.
Why Nikolaj Ehlers Is a Leading Choice for Teams Missing Out on Marner
Friedman shared insights about Ehlers’ potential status in free agency, stating,
“Like Marner, I’m hearing Ehlers will go to July 1st, and then we’ll see.”
He emphasized that no definitive decision from Ehlers or Winnipeg has been confirmed, but there is a strong sense he will test the open market starting July 1.
At 29 years old, Ehlers just finished a seven-year contract with the Jets worth $42 million. Last season, he earned 63 points in 69 games and contributed seven points in eight postseason appearances. His consistent performance makes him an attractive target for teams seeking scoring depth on the wing.
Daily Faceoff projects Ehlers could secure a six-year deal worth approximately $48.6 million, underscoring his value in the current market.
Friedman remarked on Ehlers’ appeal for teams missing out on Marner:
“I do wonder about a team that’s looking on the wing, says ‘Alright, we’re not in the Marner game, and we don’t have a shot at Marner; we’re just going right to Ehlers.’”
Recent Trade Discussions and the Jets’ Outlook on Ehlers
The Jets nearly traded Ehlers at this year’s deadline in a deal involving Martin Necas, but concerns about Necas’s long-term commitment to Winnipeg caused the team to withdraw from negotiations. This episode suggests the Jets may have accepted the possibility that Ehlers will leave.
The willingness to consider Ehlers in a midseason deal last March signals that the Jets are preparing for his potential departure, which could greatly impact their roster and future strategy.
Implications for NHL Teams and What to Watch Next
As July 1 approaches, the Mitch Marner free agency alternatives and fallback plans will become clearer. Ehlers appears poised to draw significant attention from teams prioritizing wing scoring if Marner remains out of reach. Monitoring these developments will be crucial for teams adjusting their lineups ahead of the upcoming season.