Report: Jets, Wheeler working together to end tenure in Winnipeg
The Winnipeg Jets and former captain Blake Wheeler are working amicably to find the 36-year-old a new home after 13 seasons with the organization, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported on Thursday's edition of "Insider Trading."
It's unclear whether Wheeler's departure will come via trade or buyout, LeBrun added.
The NHL's buyout window closes June 30, according to Cap Friendly. Wheeler has one season left on his current contract at a cap hit of $8.25 million. Buying him out would cost the Jets $2.75 million each of the next two seasons.
Wheeler's contract includes a five-team no-trade list.
The Minnesota native has been with the Jets since 2010-11, their final season as the Atlanta Thrashers. He's the club's all-time leader in games played (897), assists (550), and points (812).
Wheeler was one of the game's top playmakers in his prime, but his point totals and ice time have decreased in recent seasons. He managed 16 goals and 39 assists across 72 contests this past campaign.
He was stripped of his captaincy in September.
The Jets are expected to undergo significant changes this summer. Along with Wheeler's imminent departure, core players Pierre-Luc Dubois, Mark Scheifele, and Connor Hellebuyck are rumored to be prime trade candidates.