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The Jets missing the playoffs may have cost them their 1C; Scheifele may want out in Winnipeg

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Mike Armenti
May 1, 2022 (7:27 PM)

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The Winnipeg Jets had what can only be characterized as an underwhelming and disappointing 2021-22 season, but as bad as their problems were this season, it may pale in comparison to how problematic their upcoming offseason could end up being.

On Sunday, the Winnipeg Jets had the chance to speak with the media following a 4-3 win over the Seattle Kraken to conclude the 2021-22 season. We all knew that the offseason was going to be an interesting one for the Jets after failing to make the playoffs and having their long-time head coach Paul Maurice resign from his position early on this season. However, I don't know if anyone was prepared for the comments from the team's #1C Mark Scheifele.

When asked about what the future might hold for him, the 29-year-old Scheifele was very non-committal with his response. While he did not come out and request a trade outright, he certainly didn't instill a lot of faith that he wants to remain in Winnipeg any longer.

I just have to know, just have to understand where this team is going. I'm in the prime of my career. I still have so much to improve on too and like where my game is at. like the physical nature that my body is at. I'm only improving, I'm only getting better and I'm only going to be a better player next year than was this year. just have to know where this team is going and what the direction is and what the changes are going to be, if any. have to think about my career and what's going to be best for me. Those are going to be.. talks with my agents and everyone in my family and stuff like that and figure out what really want. So, will be a tough talk tomorrow.

-Mark Scheifele on whether or not he wants to remain a Jet past this season

Scheifele has two seasons remaining on his current deal and carries a $6.125M cap hit. While character and attitude may be a bit of an issue with Scheifele, his play on the ice certainly isn't. Scheifele just concluded his 5th consecutive season at a point-per-game or better, with 70 points in 67 games. Unfortunately, his season was hampered by injury, otherwise he was well on his way to setting a new career high in points. 84 was his previous high (2018-19).

If he does come out and request a trade, there should be no shortage of suitors lining up for a chance at acquiring a bona-fide #1 center. The return would be enormous, but it would almost certainly trigger a full blown rebuild for the Jets.

Previously on MapleLeafsDaily

Sheldon Keefe reveals that one of his top forwards is unlikely to play in Game 1, another is a game-time decision

Boeser overcome by emotion after being asked about sick father, walks out of press conference

Sheldon Keefe fires a warning shot at the Tampa Bay Lightning, promising a violent series

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1 MAI \| 69 ANSWERS The Jets missing the playoffs may have cost them their 1C; Scheifele may want out in Winnipeg Will Mark Scheifele request a trade this summer?
Yes	51	73.9 %
No	18	26.1 %
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