Logan Stanley with the Winnipeg Jets (Via Getty Images) Winnipeg Jets defenseman Logan Stanley made his priorities clear as the March 6 trade deadline approaches. The pending unrestricted free agent wants to remain with the organization that drafted him, despite widespread speculation linking him to contending teams seeking defensive depth.Stanley’s stance represents a significant development for Winnipeg’s front office. The 27-year-old has emerged as one of the most talked-about trade candidates after posting career-best numbers through 55 games.
Logan Stanley remains an important part of the Winnipeg Jets despite raising doubts
Stanley’s combination of size, affordability, and playoff experience makes him attractive to teams chasing postseason berths. Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Free Press reported Wednesday that Stanley indicated his desire to stay with the Jets. The 6’7” D-man added that contract discussions between his representatives and Winnipeg management are expected in the coming days before he returns to game action. Stanley recorded 18 points this season while taking on increased responsibilities along Winnipeg’s blue line. He is already proving this season is different, as he had never even crossed five points in any season since the Jets picked him 18th overall in the first round of the 2016 NHL Draft. His frame has since made him an imposing figure on the blue line, and many teams want him on their back line.For teams that are looking for a deep playoff run, Stanley’s frame provides exactly the type of player they need on their defensive unit. Meanwhile, the sudden increase in points does make a better case for the Jets to keep him on the roster.This breakout performance also gives him the chance to bag a better deal and perhaps even win the championship itself. The upcoming contract discussions introduce an intriguing decision for Winnipeg’s front office. Moving him could net future assets in a seller’s market hungry for size and defensive depth. But while it does give them a chance to bring some new names to the team, keeping Stanley will make sure that their blue line remains steady. The blueliner has already proved his loyalty to the organization, so at this point it remains upto GM Kevin Cheveldayoff to make the final decision.The Jets could focus on other areas of need while maintaining stability on the back end. They already sit 28th overall in the NHL standings with a 22-25-8 record through the Olympic break and trail the Western Conference playoff race by eight points with 27 games remaining after play resumes February 24.The organization faces critical decisions about its direction heading into the deadline. While keeping the imposing D-man would mean that the Jets still have their playoff dreams alive, for now, it seems hard to realistically secure the postseason. Till then, the management still has 2 more weeks to think.