There's noise coming out of Winnipeg and it's not from fans slapping the panic button as the Jets struggle to hold onto a playoff spot in the Western conference. This is about what they will do as injuries mount, depth is challenged and pressure builds.
The latest bad news is Ben Chairot has a cast on his left hand and is in a sling. Chairot has been a pleasant surprise since he was called up last November. He has played with Dustin Byfuglien and complimented him well but that addition from within is lost after the fight against Winnik on Saturday night in Toronto.
With the injury to Perreault and another loss at defense the Jets move Buff to forward and use a trio of Harrison, Pardy and Postma to manage the bottom pairing. Is it time to finally get some help for the forwards?
I would think so.
While most fans would like to see the Jets take some one from within- 'hi Klingberg' the rumours abound that Chevy is looking to deal an unsigned asset- Alexander Burmistrov. The Jets property is in RFA status and coming to the end of his two year deal with AK Bars in the KHL. So what's he worth?
This is the $64,000 dollar question as he left Winnipeg on 'questionable' terms but has not yet lit up the KHL as some would expect a top 10 NHL draft pick to do. If the Jets know what he's worth, at least to them, how do they convince other teams to pay that price? Furthermore, do the Jets really know what he is worth to them under the current structure and regime?
Burmistrov can't come back and play this season, at least not without some strange twists and luck but that won't happen. So is it actually worth trading him now or in the summer or next season after the team is certain he does not fit. Think of this- as the trade deadline gets closer and Frolik is not signed can the Jets afford to risk losing him and Burmistrov, and this from a depth stand point.
If Frolik is not signed by the deadline does he stick around or wait for offers on a thin UFA market this summer? If Frolik is not traded and the Jets take the risk of keeping him to help with making post season and he walks in the summer, can the organization afford to lose Burmistrov as well?
THat being said, we don't know what the return for the young Russian would be but it might not be an equivalent roster player. The reality of losing those two players could be severe and what message does that send to impending UFAs next year?
Sure Burmistrov could be moved but with an extra first round pick this year and second, third and fourths plus the rarely used Postma (RFA) why not use those. Calvert, Bergenheim and others are available and can help the forward depth issues as the Jets' defense depth gets tested. Why is Chevy waiting?
Rumour status:
Jets have been scouting Philadelphia Jets have been scouting Toronto Jets have been scouting Arizona Jets have been scouted by Boston
With the idea that the Bruins need a vet back up would dealing Budaj be an option?
Do the Jets keep Frolik after trade deadline if he is not signed?
It's the pinnacle of silly season and the Jets are in the thick of the playoff race and the trade rumours. It's nice for fans who want to see some action but do they really believe with injuries mounting Chevy can take all of the pressing needs by a week today? If he does it's going to be a wild ride.