Jets ink Connor to 7-year extension with $7.14M AAV

The Winnipeg Jets have signed restricted free agent Kyle Connor to a seven-year contract extension that carries a $7.14-million average annual value, the team announced Saturday.

Colorado Avalanche star Mikko Rantanen inked his own extension earlier Saturday evening, making Connor the last of this year's star RFA class to sign a new deal.

His fresh contract marks Winnipeg's second big signing in as many days, as fellow RFA Patrik Laine agreed to terms on a two-year, $13.5-million deal on Friday.

With Connor signed, the Jets have a projected $7.716 million in available cap space, according to Cap Friendly. However, that number doesn't factor in Dustin Byfuglien - who is currently suspended without pay as he ponders his future in the league - and his $7.6-million cap hit.

The Jets drafted Connor 17th overall in 2015, and he's emerged as a key piece in the club's attack alongside Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler on the top line.

Connor recorded his second consecutive 30-plus goal season in 2018-19, notching 34 while adding 32 assists in 82 contests.

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