The Jets wrapped up their final RFA signing, agreeing to terms with Albertan Tyrel Bauer on a two-year contract with an AAV of $875,000 in the NHL. Bauer was originally selected by Winnipeg in 2020 and has spent the past four seasons with the Manitoba Moose after turning pro ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.
Bauer is a heart-and-soul type of player and one of the toughest fighters in the AHL. But last season he proved he brings far more than physicality, becoming an integral part of the Moose blue line.
Photo Credit: Colby Spence (Illegal Curve)
Head coach Mark Morrisson explained Bauer’s importance during the Calder Cup Playoffs in April:
“There are all sorts of things that Tyrel brings. He gives us all sorts of courage. He gives us energy. And the one thing that Tyrel’s brought to his game now is he’s a good hockey player. We used to not care so much if Tyrel missed five minutes for a fight. Now we do. We need him on the ice. He’s brought a whole different element to his game. He can’t just fly off the handle and sit in the penalty box.”
At just 24 years old, Bauer has the qualities of a future captain or alternate captain with the Moose. He’ll also have an opportunity to push for NHL consideration during training camp, especially with Elias Salomonsson recovering from injury and his availability for the start of camp uncertain.
Bauer’s impact extended well beyond the ice. He was named the Moose’s Richard Bue Ultimate Teammate, EPRA Julian Klymkiw Community Service and GoodLife Fitness Fan Favourite award winner before earning the AHL’s prestigious Yanick Dupré Memorial Award as the league’s Man of the Year.
It’s a two-way deal in 2026-27 and a one-way deal in 2027-28.
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