Winnipeg Jets: 2 UFAs Team Must Let Walk In Free Agency

The Winnipeg Jets had a disappointing end to their 2022-23 season as the head coach Rick Bowness and the team seem to be on different pages. The Jets were inconsistent at best this season and it cost them in the first round of the playoffs. As there is a thinking that the roster may be dismantled in the offseason in regards to the big guns, there are also a few upcoming UFAs that shouldn't be brought back either.

Saku Maenelainen

Saku Maenalanen made his return to the NHL after playing overseas for a number of seasons. The Jets took a chance on him and he was nothing special for them. He played a bottom-6/fourth line role and logged just over 10 minutes a game despite constant injuries to some of the top players.

Maenalanen scored four goals and 10 points and only got into 64 of the games. He didn't show enough to be given more ice time or opportunity and even if the roster of the Jets isn't blown up next season, there are other players who proved to be more effective and young players looking for a spot on the team.

David Rittich

The Jets goaltending was great for the most part when Connor Hellebuyck was in the crease, but the team struggled when the backup, David Rittich, was in goal. He was just 9-8-1 this season with a .901 SV% and -1.6 goals saved above average (GSAA). That isn't good enough for a backup and the Jets know it. There will be a number of other options in free agency or even available for trade that the team can acquire as an upgrade to help better their record.