Some breaking news this morning as the Jets announced they’ve signed Vlad Namestnikov to a two-year contract extension. Valued at 3 million dollars AAV. This is the second time he’s signed a two year deal with Winnipeg.
Photo Credit: Colby Spence (Illegal Curve)
Namestnikov has 10 goals and 29 points in 52 games this season.
We are discussing on the IC Hockey Show now. Join us here.
Update:
Michtell Clinton, radio colour analyst of the Jets, caught up with number 7 following the optional morning skate as he gets ready for the game tonight against the Blues in St. Louis to talk about his extension.
Q: How does getting it signed feel and how quickly did it come together?
VN: “Feels good. I love Winnipeg ever since I got here. Loved every second of it. So wanted to get something done and it was fairly quick. Happy we could get something done.”
Q: What was it about Winnipeg that you felt like was a real fit for you?
VN: “Just the guys, the way they treat you here in Winnipeg, everyone’s so nice to you. Just feels like a family. I think it’s a very special group that can do some special things.”
He also caught up with head coach Scott Arniel about the extension.
Q: From a coach’s standpoint, nice to have someone with his versatility locked up for next couple of years?
SA: “Having a guy like that that I’ve coached for a few years, I’ve got some history with him going back to New York, just a real pro that comes to play every night. Guy’s got lots of experience. He’s filled some big holes for us over the last couple of years. This full year playing up on that second line finding chemistry with Ehlers and Perfetti has certainly helped us a lot. Really happy for Vladdy.”
Q: How has Namestnikov grown over the years?
SA: “He’s played a lot of different roles. He’s gone from sort of a top line guy to the bottom six guy, he’s been a penalty killer, been on that (checking guy) side of it. He’s got a real good 200-foot game. You can rely on him in a lot of situations. He’s brave. He’s gonna get in front of shots. He’s gonna block shots. He’s got a little bite to him. He can ruffle the feathers of the opposition lots. He’s been pretty consistent this year with his game. Anytime you look down the bench as a coach that’s what you’re hoping. That you know what you’re gonna get every shift from him and that’s Vladdy. Vladdy you know what’s coming each and every night.”
