Winnipeg Jets Place Blake Wheeler on Waivers, Buy Out Contract

The official social media platforms of the Winnipeg Jets made it public knowledge Friday that Blake Wheeler, who has been with the club for over a decade, will test free agency as of July 1. Winnipeg is placing him on waivers with the intention of buying out his contract. Thus continues the organization’s 2023 summer of change.

Winnipeg Jets’ Blake Wheeler to Become Free Agent

Things quickly changed for Wheeler over the past 12 months. A member of the Jets organization since the 2011-2012 season, the American saw his production dip slightly (from 60 points to 55), a new coach arrive in the form of Rick Bowness, and his captaincy removed in the process.

He had one year left on a deal signed in 2018, and his average annual value – or AAV – was set to be $8.25 million for the 2023-2024 season. This decision will save Winnipeg $2.75 million over the next two years.

This means that Blake Wheeler’s July 1 is a new start, as he will be an unrestricted free agent.

It had been clear for some time that the Jets would be making big changes this summer. The 2022-2023 season did not go according to plan and it was felt a change of course was needed. Earlier this week Pierre-Luc Dubois was sent to the Los Angeles Kings. There is even chatter about goaltender Connor Hellebuyck and forward Mark Scheifele being traded, although those conversations are proceeding at a cautious, deliberate pace.

All in all, should the Jets stick to their summertime game plan, the 2023-2024 edition will look very different from the one fans have come to know the past few seasons.