In case you haven’t noticed, you know, because you’ve been fishing at the lake, NHL Rumours are splashing like a speckled trout on a calm, cool pond out in Cottage Country. As a disclaimer, we are okay with that option. Anyway, hockey, let’s talk hockey, Winnipeg Jets style. Of course, the 2025 NHL Entry Draft is a mere two days away. But today we are discussing Gabriel Vilardi and the possibility of general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff and crew re-signing the arbitration-eligible, restricted free agent forward. Therefore, let’s search through the murky bottom and find the prize right before our eyes.

The Winnipeg Jets are engaged in ongoing contract negotiations with pending RFA Gabe Vilardi, who is arbitration eligible. Still early in the process, but talks well underway.

— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) June 25, 2025

NHL Rumours: The Jets Are Doing What They Can to Re-Sign RFA Gabriel Vilardi

Rumour: The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta is reporting both sides are doing their due diligence and involved in the relevant contract negotiations.

Analysis: It may not seem like a big deal. However, it is, as Vilardi should be seen as a priority. The fact they are in talks this early in the summer is excellent.

Realistically, you never really know how contract negotiations with an RFA will ultimately go. Plus with such uncertainty surrounding the offensively-minded Nikolaj Ehlers, the Jets can’t afford to lose another offensive contributor like Vilardi. Moreover, the news with Jonathan Toews was positive as well. It shows management is committed to making improvements to the roster.

Ever since Gabe Vilardi arrived from the Los Angeles Kings, he’s been a success. At the time, it was somewhat of a gamble to send out a top-line Pierre-Luc Dubois for Vilardi and a couple others. Rasmus Kupari has since moved on, but Alex Iafallo is still going strong. In any case, for Vilardi, as well as Iafallo for that matter, the level of comfort in Winnipeg has been high.

Why Are the Jets So High on Vilardi?

For these NHL Rumours, that is why GM Cheveldayoff wants to get it done with no delay. So, the fact that they are involved in good conversations already, is excellent news. It will likely be a busy summer anyway, trying to tinker with the lineup. The nice thing for Winnipeg, is their available salary cap room. They currently have 17 people under contract, and still over $24 million to spend. Moreover, for a team looking for an off-season upgrade, things are looking up.

How about why re-signing Vilardi makes sense from a statistical viewpoint. He was actually a member of the Jets most relied upon line in 2024-25. He skating alongside stars Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor for over 900 minutes, recording an xGoals% of 52.6. Personally, Vilardi has been very productive in Winnipeg. In 118 career games in Winterpeg he has 49 goals and 48 assists for 97 points. Therefore, he will command a solid contract at this time. He’s already playing top-line minutes. Plus, the Jets aren’t going to risk losing one of their best offensive players. It is very reassuring for Jet fans that it appears to be cordial, at this time. Hopefully they can get it done, quick and easy. Both sides have the will, and Jets do have cash, so, it is looking good.

Main Photo Credit:  Terrence Lee-Imagn Images