In a 2024-25 campaign where Manitoba has won 24 times through 70 games and failed to qualify for the postseason for the first time since 2019, it’s no secret the Jets’ AHL affiliate did not as a team have a successful campaign. But, that doesn’t mean there haven’t been any encouraging developments this year.
Moose rookie defenceman Elias Salomonsson has proven this season why he was selected 55th overall by Winnipeg in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft in Montreal. The 20-year-old from Skellefteå, Sweden was recently announced as the winner of the club’s Rookie of the Year Award and Best Defenceman Award.
Photo Credit: Colby Spence (Illegal Curve)
“It’s an honour for sure,” said Salomonsson post-practice today at the hockey for all centre. “I feel way more comfortable now with my game.”
In 51 games this season, Salomonsson’s tallied five goals and 27 points, which not only leads all Moose rookies in scoring, but also ties Dylan Coghlan for most points on the entire backend.
The 6-foot-2, 185-pound defender also managed to post a -6 goal differential despite playing in a top-four role on a team that has a -78 plus/minus.
Manitoba netminder Domenic DiVincentiis said Salomonsson’s success this year does not surprise him in the slightest.
“His future’s bright,” DiVincentiis said. “He’s a pretty special player and a great guy off the ice as well.”
Photo Credit: Colby Spence (Illegal Curve)
Salomonsson, who represented the antlers at the AHL All-Star Classic in February, may also get a chance to make his NHL debut Wednesday night in what will be a nothing-burger game against the Anaheim Ducks after the Jets clinched the Presidents’ Trophy Sunday night.
“That’s what you work for, so that would mean a lot,” Salomonsson said.
