Jets trade Little's contract to Coyotes

The Winnipeg Jets dealt forward Bryan Little's contract and the rights to unsigned college forward Nathan Smith to the Arizona Coyotes for a fourth-round pick, the team announced.

Little is on long-term injured reserve and hasn't played since 2019-20 due to a perforated eardrum. He took a slap shot to the head during a game in November 2019.

Despite his lengthy absence, the 34-year-old is still under contract through 2023-24 at a cap hit of approximately $5.3 million, according to CapFriendly.

Smith reportedly didn't plan to sign with the Jets. The 23-year-old is in his junior year at Minnesota State-Mankato, and he's eligible to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Smith has collected 18 goals and 31 assists over 34 games with the Mavericks this season.