If you’re thinking why does this sound familiar it is because for the second year in a row a player Winnipeg could have retained as an RFA failed to hit the requirements and will instead become a Group 6 UFA.
Last year it was goalie Eric Comrie who needed 90 more minutes for the Jets to retain him. They did make an offer to him but he chose to sign with the Sabres on the first day of free agency and Winnipeg ended up with David Rittich. During his media availability last year GM Kevin Cheveldayoff was asked if it was a mistake not to get him the games needed and he indicated the potential arbitration award had they retained him as an RFA “probably would be a little too rich for what we would have been able to spend”.
This year, according to the folks at CapFriendly, it is Axel Jonsson-Fjallby who needed just one more game (75) instead of the 74 he played in order for Winnipeg to retain his rights as an RFA. He will now be a Group 6 UFA on July 1st and free to sign with any team of his choosing, including Winnipeg is he decides he would want to return.
Photo Credit: Colby Spence (Illegal Curve)
The Jets picked up the speedy Swedish forward off waivers from the Capitals back in October of this past season. He had six goals and eight assists in 50 games for Winnipeg as well as getting into one playoff game for the Jets.
He also played four games for the Moose scoring three goals and adding an assist. He had been made eligible to join Manitoba for their playoffs but was not sent down.
