NHL Rumors: 3 Winnipeg Jets Offseason Center Targets

One of the Winnipeg Jets' top objectives this offseason should be to improve down the middle. They absolutely need another top-six center, so it would not be surprising in the slightest if they looked to land one this summer.

Because of this, let's look at three centers who the Jets should target during the offseason.

Charlie Coyle, Columbus Blue Jackets

If Coyle hits the free-agent market instead of re-signing with the Blue Jackets, the Jets would be wise to target him. The 34-year-old forward had a strong 2025-26 season with the Blue Jackets, posting 20 goals, 38 assists, and 58 points in 82 games. With numbers like these, he would have the potential to be a strong pickup for the Jets' second-line center spot.

Shane Wright, Seattle Kraken

Wright is still looking to break out as a true top-six NHL forward, but he could be a very good young player for the Jets to take a chance on. It is clear that the 22-year-old center could use a change of scenery, and he could take that next step on a team like the Jets. If he tapped into his potential move after a move to Winnipeg, he could be a great long-term option for the Jets' 2C spot.

Vincent Trocheck, New York Rangers

Trocheck is exactly the kind of center that a team looking to get back into the playoffs next season, like the Jets, should target. He would be a perfect fit for their second-line center spot and would be more than a rental, as he is signed until the end of the 2028-29 season. His 10-team trade list for next season could make a move difficult for the Jets, but the fit looks good on paper.