The Winnipeg Jets inked defenseman Logan Stanley to a one-year contract extension worth $1M on Saturday.
The 25-year-old blue-liner has a commanding presence on the ice, standing in at six-foot-seven, 242 pounds. Stanley can use his size to his advantage, recording 224 hits and blocking 151 shots in 114 games played over three NHL seasons.
With his large stature, Stanley can force opposing attackers to the outside and use his body to force shooters to the outside. However, his speed can be an issue when the opponent comes in on the rush. Skating has never been the bread and butter for the large defenseman, but his size can be a valuable asset... There aren’t many players of his size in the NHL.
Stanley has made few contributions offensively in his NHL career, potting three goals with 20 points over his 114 games with the Jets since 2020-21. Last year, he played in just 19 games with the Jets, finishing the season with three points. Offense isn’t to be expected of the 242-pounder, who plays a defensive-minded style of hockey.
With under 150 games of NHL experience, Stanley still has room to grow, but his potential could be improved. Don’t expect him to break out as a top-pairing defenseman in 2023-24. Instead, expect a rotation that sees him playing a limited role on a team with many depth blue-liners. Over three seasons in Winnipeg, the Windsor Spitfires alums have averaged just 14:32 of ice time per game, which is indicative of that depth.
The 2023-24 season is set to be an essential campaign for the career of Stanley, whose contract appears to be a “prove it” deal. A one-year contract extension doesn’t make for much security long-term – that still needs to be earned. If he can have a career year in the upcoming season, he should expect a pay raise and the ability to play where he sees fit. Despite reportedly requesting to be traded from the Jets organization in March, the former first-round draft pick remains in Winnipeg. However, the possibility of a trade remains on the table.
On the Jets' end, they can do no wrong with this contract extension. With the re-signing of Stanley, the team keeps a young defenseman who provides more depth and adds a rare size advantage to your lineup when he slots in. If Stanley develops his game to the next level, he and his team will benefit.
By signing Logan Stanley to a one-year contract extension worth $1M on Saturday, the Winnipeg Jets keep someone with a commanding physical presence on the ice and retain depth on their blue line.
Comments