Winnipeg Jets sign Dylan Samberg to three-year $17.25M extension

The Winnipeg Jets have signed restricted free agent defenseman Dylan Samberg to a three-year contract extension worth $17.25 million total, with an average annual value of $5.75 million, avoiding arbitration. Samberg, 26, emerged as a key top-four shutdown defenseman last season, recording career highs with six goals and 20 points in 60 games, while playing heavy minutes on the penalty kill and even strength. The deal represents a significant raise from his previous $1.4 million cap hit and gives Samberg the chance to become an unrestricted free agent at age 29, betting on his continued development. General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff sees this contract as crucial for maintaining the Jets' competitive window, especially alongside fellow defenseman Neal Pionk, who has mentored Samberg. While the contract term is shorter than some projections, it balances the team's salary cap flexibility with securing a developing cornerstone on defense. The Jets have also settled contracts with other arbitration-eligible players, focusing next on extensions for key forwards eligible for unrestricted free agency in 2026.