Jets buy out Wheeler after 13 seasons with franchise
It's the end of an era in Winnipeg.
The Jets are placing former captain Blake Wheeler on unconditional waivers for the purpose of buying out the final year of his contract, the team announced Friday.
"It has been my absolute honor and privilege to be a Winnipeg Jet, to represent this city and this organization," he said.
Here's a breakdown of a buyout for Wheeler, according to CapFriendly:
| Season | Initial cap hit | Buyout cap hit |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | $8.25M | $2.75M |
| 2024-25 | $0 | $2.75M |
The buyout will make Wheeler an unrestricted free agent eligible to sign with any team. The Dallas Stars are among several clubs interested in the winger, reports TSN's Darren Dreger. However, Wheeler's camp would prefer a move to the Eastern Conference, per Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.
The writing had been on the wall for a divorce between the two sides. The club reportedly tried to trade him but was unsuccessful.
Once one of the game's best wingers, Wheeler's production fell to 16 goals and 39 assists in 72 games this past season. His underlying numbers have taken an even steeper decline. He turns 37 in August.
Blake Wheeler, bought out by WPG, is a pure playmaking veteran winger. He can still pass the puck and produces primary assists at a high rate, but the other elements of his game are less effective. #GoJetsGo pic.twitter.com/xqusDzmfCo
- JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 30, 2023
Wheeler recorded a heartfelt goodbye to Winnipeg fans and the Jets organization.
It has been my absolute honour and privilege to be a Winnipeg Jet"
- Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) June 30, 2023
- Blake Wheeler pic.twitter.com/fL8w2oGw9S
The Jets also honored Wheeler with a tribute video.
Your leadership, skill, and dedication to Winnipeg will forever leave an impact on our community.
- Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) June 30, 2023
Thank you, Wheels. pic.twitter.com/Skqlk9FmeY
Wheeler spent 13 seasons with the organization, including all 12 it's been in Winnipeg since relocating from Atlanta in 2011. He wore the 'C' for six campaigns and is the franchise's all-time leader in games played (897), assists (550), and points (812).
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