Perfetti Contemplates Long-Term Deal with Jets Under New Coaching Leadership
The Winnipeg Jets’ offseason has taken a significant turn with reports indicating that 22-year-old restricted free agent Cole Perfetti is considering a long-term contract with the team. This development follows promising discussions between Perfetti and newly appointed head coach Scott Arniel.
Perfetti, the Jets’ 2020 10th overall pick, had a roller-coaster season in 2023-24. He started strong, netting 14 goals and 29 points in the first 40 games, but his performance dipped in the latter half, leading to a demotion and healthy scratches. Despite these challenges, Perfetti’s skill and potential remain evident, and his positive interactions with Arniel have rekindled his interest in a long-term commitment.
The potential deal could mirror the long-term contracts the Jets have previously secured with key players like Mark Scheifele, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Kyle Connor. Such a move would provide Perfetti with stability and the Jets with salary cap certainty.
Short-term contract projections place Perfetti’s average annual value (AAV) around $3 million, similar to Shane Pinto’s recent two-year, $3.75 million AAV extension with Ottawa. However, longer-term deals could see Perfetti’s AAV in the $5.5 million to $6.25 million range, comparable to Quinton Byfield’s five-year, $31.25 million contract with the Los Angeles Kings.
Perfetti’s decision to potentially sign a longer-term deal is influenced by Arniel’s commitment to giving him a top-six role and more power play opportunities. Arniel’s trust and the Jets’ shift towards a youth-focused strategy could pave the way for Perfetti to thrive.
If the Jets and Perfetti reach an agreement, it would mark a significant win for general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff, providing a positive narrative in an otherwise quiet offseason. Moreover, a long-term deal would align Perfetti with other homegrown talents who have committed to Winnipeg, strengthening the team’s future prospects.
