It was clear when Nikolaj Ehlers made his first return to Winnipeg as a visiting player this past November and was absolutely drowned in applause by the fans in attendance at Canada Life Centre just how much the Dynamic Dane meant to the city.
Drafted ninth overall in 2014, Ehlers spent 10 seasons making electrifying plays in a Jets uniform and establishing himself as one of the franchise’s most beloved players.
He made the difficult decision last July to sign with the Carolina Hurricanes as a free agent, inking a six-year, $51 million contract to continue his career in Raleigh.
It proved to be a decision that paid off, as Ehlers helped lead his new team to just its second Stanley Cup championship, coming 20 years after the franchise’s first title in 2006.
After the game, Ehlers was asked by Elliotte Friedman about Winnipeg’s impact on his career. As he considered his answer, the emotion was evident as he reflected on what the city, organization, and fan base had meant to him.
“I loved being in Winnipeg. This was the dream there. I’m obviously sad I wasn’t able to do that with the guys in Winnipeg and the city of Winnipeg. They hold a special place in my heart, I’ve said that. They’re family. The whole organization gave me a shot at playing in the NHL and I couldn’t be more thankful. Like I said, it was a hard decision this summer, but I loved my ten years in Winnipeg. It was a special time.”
I’m sure that there will be plenty more to come from number 27. Stay tuned.
You can watch the full video here:
“I loved being in Winnipeg. This was the dream there. I’m obviously sad I wasn’t able to do that with the guys in Winnipeg and the city of Winnipeg. They hold a special place in my heart..”
Nikolaj Ehlers gets emotional discussing the impact of Winnipeg on his career. pic.twitter.com/PsXrZDdsQ3
— Dave Minuk (@ICdave) June 15, 2026
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