After a disappointing playoff run, the Winnipeg Jets are gearing up for what should be a busy offseason. They have an array of notable free agents, including Tyler Toffoli, Sean Monahan, Dylan DeMelo, and Brenden Dillon.
However, one of their restricted free agents has been creating some buzz in the rumor mill as of late – Cole Perfetti.
According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, Perfetti is continuing to “pop up in discussion with various people across the NHL, and teams “will inquire about his availability.” This comes after Perfetti was scratched for four of the Jets’ five playoff games this year.
If Perfetti is officially made available this summer, the Boston Bruins should have him on their radar. The former first-round pick has shown promise at the NHL level and has the tools to blossom into a true top-six forward. In addition, he offers excellent versatility, being able to play both down the middle and on the wing.
While Perfetti was not used much by the Jets in the playoffs, he still had a good 2023-24 campaign. In 71 games, the 22-year-old posted new career highs with 19 goals, 38 points, and a plus-13 rating. It was a step in the right direction for the Whitby native, but it is fair to argue that he has not yet hit his ceiling.
However, even if Perfetti’s value is a bit down after being scratched in the playoffs, the Jets still would expect a notable return for him. Bruins top prospect Fabian Lysell and a pick or two would likely need to be the starting point in a potential move.
It will be intriguing to see what the Jets do with Perfetti. He is getting the league’s attention, and the Bruins would be wise to kick tires on the youngster because of it.
