Back on June 26th, 2015 in Sunrise, Florida the Jets had the opportunity to select Youngstown Phantoms phenom Kyle Connor who was committed to the University of Michigan for the 2015-16 season. The organization got lucky as the Boston Bruins had picks 13, 14 and 15 that year but didn’t use it on the Shelby Township, Michigan product allowing Winnipeg to snatch him up with the 17th overall selection. (The Islanders took Matt Barzal 16th overall).
He’s been in Winnipeg for the last ten years and as a result of his extension he signed today could be in the city for another nine.
Photo Credit: Colby Spence (Illegal Curve)
Just last season he hit a number of milestones including playing in his 600th NHL game, getting his 500th NHL point as well as finishing with his highest points total (97) of his career.
When he spoke after skate today it was clear how committed he is to the team and bringing them a championship as well as being part of the Winnipeg community.
Here were some of the notable quotes from his media availability:
“Couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of this organization for the next eight, nine years including this year. I think the culture/identity of this city and this organization fits well with my values and that’s something that was a big priority for me. Just looking at the window and the pieces that this organization has built over the years, and their willingness to win at all costs. You can see it from top down starting with Mark Chipman giving us players ever since I’ve came into this organization a chance to succeed and all the tools that you need. And it’s continued throughout the career and it’s getting better. From an organization standpoint I love to see it and I couldn’t be more excited.”
Asked if he ever considered free agency he had an interesting reply:
“I reflected at the end of the year last year and gave it some thought but there was never any scenario where I could see myself going somewhere else. This team, these guys here and this organization has been nothing but top notch. Like I said earlier just giving you every chance you can to succeed and all the tools. I wouldn’t want to try to win a Stanley Cup with another group of players and organization. So once you really start thinking about it, there was no other place.”
That’s quite a revealing answer.
He was asked about being the highest paid player but redirected to how much the city means to him:
“I’m just happy to be here for another eight years. It is what it is. This city means a lot to me. I think, I was kinda alluding to earlier, just the values of this city align a lot with me. And this organization about just family first, just competeness, willingness to win in this organization. It means a lot.”
Asked about the role his family plays in choosing long-term, he was quick to answer:
“Definitely. You gotta start thinking about other people in this scenario. I think Winnipeg’s a great place to raise a family. Talk to the guys over the years, people who have done it before, the Blake Wheeler’s and even Hellebuyck having small kids, and everybody. It’s a great community to raise a family and that’s definitely part of the equation as well.”
You can watch or listen to his full chat today below.
Video:
Audio:
