Breaking News: Winnipeg Jets agree to contract extension with Toby Enstrom

Ironically this signing comes on the heels of Richard Pollock‘s analysis of what sort of contract the Jets rearguard might secure from the Winnipeg Jets.  (Read the two part series here; Part 1 and Part 2).

Note:  Richard said starting point was 4 years, 24 million.  TSN is reporting the contract to be 5 years worth $28.75 million.  Looks like Richard was pretty, pretty, pretty close.

Here is what Toby Enstrom had to say on his conference call which just concluded;

–  I like what we have going on in Winnipeg. Made me want to stay in Winnipeg.

– Organization is great. Want to play a big part of it.

–  Want to be a part of this team going forward. Future is bright.

–  Wanted to stay. Happy we got it done early on. Happy I’m going to be a Winnipeg Jet for a number of years to come.

–  Deal came together pretty quick. They wanted me to stay which I appreciated. Got the deal done in a short period of time.

–  I like everything about this team. Believe in everything about the team. We are going to fight for a playoff spot.

–  Everything about this organization is great. They want to win, and so do I and all my teammates.

– Just happy to have signed with the Jets, don’t want to get into the contract details just yet.

Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff said the following about the extension:

– Toby was in WPG during development camp, sat down with him & agent, and began the process then.

– Intention all along was to sign Toby. Value what he brings to the organisation. Extremely smart, advances puck out of zone well.

– Toby provides a great deal of flexibility, extremely committed to wanting to win. Devastated him to be injured this year.

– Quality person both on and off the ice

– Only thing Toby conveyed at year end meeting is his desire to win. It is what drives him.

– We see him continuing to improve. Toby is very comfortable in Wpg and with the organisation. Still room for growth in his game.

– 5 year contract extension beyond this coming season.

– Buff and Toby enjoy playing together and enjoy being on the same team. Keeps this franchise moving forward and grow this group.

– The commitment from ownership speaks volumes to the players.

– Been on our minds for quite a while. This has been very very important. Very excited that we will have a long term relationship.