Defenseman Elias Salomonsson has been medically cleared to return to the Winnipeg Jets, though he’ll need some time to get caught up to speed. According to a team announcement, the Jets have loaned Salomonsson to the AHL’s Manitoba Moose.
Assuming he plays tonight against the Texas Stars, it will be Salomonsson’s first game action in months. The 22-year-old Swede underwent shoulder surgery in April, and he has been recovering since.
If his assignment to Manitoba, likely being treated as a conditioning stint, goes well, Salomonsson should be recalled to the Jets shortly after. He registered his rookie season last year, scoring one goal and five points in 32 games with a -6 rating, averaging nearly 18 minutes of ice time per game. Salomonsson also displayed solid possession metrics, finishing with a 51.8% CorsiFor and 91.2% on-ice SV% at even strength.
If his AHL performance is any predictor, Salomonsson should increase his offensive ceiling with more NHL experience. Throughout his first season with the Moose, Salomonsson registered five goals and 27 points in 53 games with a -7 rating.
As much as Winnipeg may want Salomonsson back on the blue line, they’re in a tricky roster spot. The Jets have only 12 healthy forwards after Vladislav Namestnikov was injured in practice. Winnipeg is also without top defenseman Josh Morrissey for the next few weeks, but already has seven other defensemen rostered. Further complicating the matter is Connor Hellebuyck’s expected return from suspension, unless the Jets can suspend him with pay.