Losers of the Trade Deadline
Winnipeg Jets
The Winnipeg Jets had one of the most frustrating deadlines for me. They have had a fantastic season, currently sitting atop the Western Conference with a 44-16-2 record.
They made a few small moves during the deadline. They swapped Kaapo Kahkonen with the Florida Panthers for Chris Dreidger. They also traded a second-round pick in 2026 and a fourth-round pick in the 2027 draft to Pittsburgh in exchange for Luke Schenn. Their third and final deal had them sending a second-round pick in 2027 to Seattle in exchange for Brandon Tanev.
I'm fine with these moves. They add depth and guys who do what you need in the playoffs, which is block shots and play physically. The reason I think they're a loser at the deadline is because this is all they did.
After the deadline, Winnipeg has six million dollars in cap space and still owns their first-round pick. Kevin Cheveldayoff had bullets to use to make a real impact on this already fantastic roster, and all he did was add depth.
The last few years the Jets have had good regular seasons and like the Leafs, they crash out in the first round. I wanted to see Cheveldayoff go out and add a second-line centre for this team.
I highly doubt Winnipeg lose in the first round to one of Calgary, Utah, St.Louis or Vancouver who look to be the four potential opponents for the Jets in the first round. It is just disappointing not to see the Jets try to load up for a deep playoff run.