In what may be the biggest news of the off-season to date, the Winnipeg Jets have reportedly signed forward Pierre-Luc Dubois to an eight-year contract extension with an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million. However, shortly after signing, Dubois is traded to the Los Angeles Kings in a sign-and-trade deal. While the exact details of the trade have yet to be revealed, it is believed that the Kings will send Gabriel Vilardi, Alex Ivalo and Rasmus Kupari to the Jets as key pieces in the deal.
The signing and trading scenario emerged as the Jets and Kings worked to navigate the salary cap effects for both teams. It had long been reported that DuBois had no intention of staying long-term with the Jets, and the difficult part for GM Kevin Sheffieldive was finding a business partner willing to pay full price forward. It appears he was able to do just that in the Kings who completely gave up distance to keep the player at bay from the Montreal Canadiens.
Dubois, a top six center, brings great offensive prowess to the Kings. He is a solid offensive driver even in power and in power, although he has been inconsistent in his finishing ability and defensive play.
Amidst the trade discussions, there were indications that the Montreal Canadiens were trying to re-enter the Dubois mix. However, their efforts to gain momentum in the negotiations were reportedly unsuccessful. While Montreal had future assets, the Jets were more interested in getting players ready to enter the NHL, which the Kings were able to provide. Dubois himself seems to have preferred the option of joining the Kings.
Fans and analysts are eagerly awaiting the official confirmation of the trade and the full details involved. The addition of Dubois to the Kings lineup is expected to make a huge impact, while the Jets will look to incorporate the players acquired to bolster their roster. If the trade goes as suggested, most see it as a big win for the Jets during a time when they may have showered themselves on any potential DuBois deal.
In a piece of related news, it looks like Blake Wheeler will be purchased by the Jets to make room for the trade.
Next: The Canadiens acquire Avalanche forward Alex Newhawk in a trade