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5mo ago

Winnipeg Jets Secure Neal Pionk with Six-Year, $42 Million Extension

The franchise locks in its breakout defenseman as it prepares for a Presidents' Trophy-winning playoff campaign.

Apr 16, 2025; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets defenseman Neal Pionk (4) skates away from Anaheim Ducks forward Trevor Zegras (11) during the first period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-Imagn Images/File photo
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New Jersey Devils' Brenden Dillon (5) fights for control of the puck with Winnipeg Jets' Neal Pionk (4) during the second period of an NHL hockey game Friday, March 7, 2025, in Newark, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Overview

  • Neal Pionk, 29, signed a six-year, $42 million contract extension with the Winnipeg Jets, avoiding unrestricted free agency.
  • Pionk recorded 10 goals and 39 points in 69 games this season, marking a career resurgence and his second double-digit goal season.
  • He played a key role in Winnipeg's defensive dominance, averaging over 22 minutes per game on the second pairing alongside Dylan Samberg.
  • The Jets achieved a franchise-record 116 points, earning the Presidents' Trophy and leading the NHL in fewest goals allowed per game (2.32).
  • Winnipeg will open its first-round playoff series at home against the St. Louis Blues on Saturday.