The Winnipeg Jets are still in talks with restricted free agent Cole Perfetti, who has returned to the city to train with his teammates, according to TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger. The young player is also set to represent the Jets at the upcoming NHL Player Media Tour in Las Vegas.
Perfetti had a breakout season in 2023-24, scoring 19 goals and tallying 38 points in 71 games. However, his season came to a disappointing end as he only played in one of Winnipeg’s five playoff games. Prior to his successful season, Perfetti struggled with injuries in the two previous years after being drafted as the 10th overall pick in 2020.
Jets’ general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff expressed his optimism about Perfetti’s potential, stating, “I think Cole is just scratching the surface. Unfortunately for him, he had a couple of injuries in his 19- and 20-year-old years, but last year he had a great year. We’re looking forward to good things with him moving forward with our core.”
Cheveldayoff continued, “He’s been around for a couple of years now, he’s one of the guys you start integrating within that group and that’s the kind of team that we have here right now. We had a great year last year, but I think we need some of our younger guys to continue to take steps and move forward for us to grow.”
In his 140 games with the Jets, Perfetti has managed to score 29 goals and earn 75 points. The team is hopeful for his continued development and success in the upcoming seasons.
