NHL Rumors: 3 Winnipeg Jets Potential Free-Agent Targets

After winning the Presidents' Trophy as the NHL's best regular season team last season, the Winnipeg Jets took a major step in the wrong direction this campaign and missed the playoffs because of it. Due to this, they should be looking to make some additions to their roster during the offseason in hopes of bouncing back in 2026-27.

Due to this, let's look at three pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs) the Jets should consider targeting if they end up hitting the market.

Anthony Mantha, RW

The Jets should be looking to add a top-six winger this offseason, and Mantha is one of the best pending UFA forwards at this time. The 31-year-old had a fantastic regular season for the Pittsburgh Penguins, as he set career highs with 33 goals, 31 assists, and 64 points in 81 games. With numbers like these, he would be a good pickup for a Jets team that needs more offense.

Charlie Coyle, C

The Jets should also be on the hunt for another center this offseason. While this year's free agency class does not have too many big-name centers, a player like Coyle could fit very nicely in their top nine and on both their special team units if signed. The Massachusetts native had a strong season for the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2025-26, posting 20 goals and 58 points in 82 games.

Jamie Oleksiak, D

The Jets should also look to sign a big shutdown defenseman this summer, and Oleksiak stands out as an interesting option. The 33-year-old's ability to play both sides would make him a valuable pickup for a Jets team that needs more defensive depth. In 78 games this season with the Seattle Kraken, he has five goals, 10 assists, 15 points, 112 hits, and a plus-9 rating.