Winnipeg Jets sign an Olympic Gold Medalist center!

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Ryan
July 20, 2022 (9:29 PM)

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This offseason the Winnipeg Jets have a bit of work to do. After missing the playoffs when they were projected to be a cup contending team, they've hired a new coaching staff led by Rick Bowness and are hoping he can get the team back on the right track.

First though, there is a lot of speculation on what is going to happen with Pierre-Luc Dubois as he told the team that will be testing the free agency next year. Dubois is currently an RFA but from the sounds of it, he will not sign more than a 1 year deal. So, at the moment the Jets are looking to trade this young center, and all the rumours have been around the Montreal Canadiens.

While this news has been taking all the headlines with the team, the Jets snuck a sneaky signing under the radar.

#NHLJets have signed UFA Saku Maenalanen
1 year / 2-way contract

NHL: $750,000
Minor: $225,000

Maenalanen played in Finland last season with Kärpät

#NHLJets have signed UFA Saku Maenalanen
1 year / 2-way contract

NHL: $750,000
Minor: $225,000

Maenalanen played in Finland last season with Kärpät

He is represented by Todd Diamond at ISAhttps://t.co/lSyOGpWOtb� CapFriendly (@CapFriendly) July 19, 2022

Maenalanen was a 5th round pick by the Nashville Predators back in 2013, but didn't crack an NHL lineup until 2018 with the Carolina Hurricanes, playing only 1 season until heading back overseas.

Maenalanen was on the 2022 Finland Olympic Gold Medal roster.