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The Winnipeg Jets are off to a good start to the 2023-24 NHL season. As of this writing, Winnipeg occupies a playoff spot in the Central Division. This is a team that went out in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs last year. Perhaps they can give themselves a shot at redemption on hockey's biggest stage next spring.
Of course, it's too early to pencil any team into the playoffs right now. However, the Jets have shown the capability to play among the best teams in their conference. That said, they need to refine their roster a bit before they truly stand out as a playoff contender.
The NHL trade deadline comes and goes on March 8. Obviously, there is a lot of time between now and then. Things can change in drastic ways. Perhaps the Jets fall by the wayside, or maybe they explode and take over the West. In any event, let's identify three early trade targets Winnipeg fans should monitor as the league's trade season inches closer.
Flyers' Nick Seeler is a valuable depth option
The Jets are in need of help on the blueline. More specifically, the team could use a true number two defenseman behind star Josh Morrissey. However, the price for one could be a bit steep on the trade market this year. If Winnipeg agrees, Nick Seeler of the Philadelphia Flyers is a valuable option.
Seeler is the ultimate underdog. In 2020-21, he wasn't even playing hockey following time with the Minnesota Wild and Chicago Blackhawks. The Flyers took a chance on the Minnesota native in 2021-22, and he has taken full advantage of the opportunity.
The 30-year-old defender plays a fearless game. He is not afraid to get physical with anyone on the ice. He is a perfect penalty-killing option, as well. Furthermore, Seeler hasn't met a shot he isn't willing to block. And he can chip in some points from the blueline if need be.
Seeler is a free agent next summer, and is currently making the league minimum. He figures to receive a raise next summer, but he could find himself on the move before then. If so, the Jets should bring in Nick Seeler for their playoff push.
Flyers, Jets could also talk Sean Walker
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If the Jets are willing to pony up for a number two defenseman, the Flyers are still a fit. Sean Walker entered the 2023-24 NHL season as a bit of an unknown. However, after a trade from the Los Angeles Kings, he has emerged as a diamond in the rough for Philadelphia.
Walker has played 25 games, scoring three goals and 11 points. He has certainly earned the trust of John Tortorella and the rest of the coaching staff, as well. The 29-year-old is averaging a little over 21 minutes a night so far this year. Before this season, his highest average time on ice in a season was a touch under 19 minutes.
Nate Schmidt has not had the greatest run of form on the ice this year. Acquiring Sean Walker could allow Schmidt to play a more sheltered role where he could shine. Additionally, Walker's play-driving would be a welcomed sight for the Jets. All in all, Walker should be near the top of Winnipeg's trade shortlist this season.
Flames' Noah Hanifin will be in demand
If the Jets desire a more tried and true option, look no further than Noah Hanifin. The Calgary Flames defenseman is an unrestricted free agent after this season. And it appears he will be one of a number of players making their way out of Calgary in July.
The Flames have already moved out Nikita Zadorov, sending him to the Vancouver Canucks. Hanifin figures to hold more value, and he may even be the top trade candidate across the league. He has established himself on the team's second pairing and will certainly be in-demand when trade season kicks into gear.
Hanifin can perform in any situation. He can play with an edge, or he can facilitate play from the point. The Flames defenseman can battle opposing offenses in his own zone, or rip shots from the point in the offensive zone. You can comfortably place him on the second pairing. And if you need him to step up, he can slot into the first pairing as well.
Any way you look at it, Noah Hanifin will be a popular player with other teams. Whether that's through trade or in the summer, we'll have to see. That said, the Winnipeg Jets must make him a top priority if they truly want to push for a spot in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
