Jets Looking To Make A Blockbuster Trade For A Vilardi Replacement

Following his injury, head coach Rick Bowness called Vilardi a big part of the Jets, adding "he was on the number one line, number one power play and he looked good doing it." So what does Winnipeg do now? The latest chatter has the team searching for a temporary replacement, with Connor Garland being a likely target.

Garland makes perfect sense as a Gilardi replacement. However, Winnipeg will have to keep in mind that Garland's cap hit at $6 million is $2.5 million more than what they're saving with Gilardi on LTIR.

It should also be noted that Phil Kessel has also been mentioned as a possible replacement. It's really weird that the three-time Stanley Cup champion doesn't have a home yet for 2023-24, and the Jets could be the perfect fit. It would be a far cheaper option than Garland and wouldn't require a trade.

At the end of the day, Winnipeg should probably get this sorted as quicky as possible. Filling that hole in the lineup now could be crucial as we get closer to the playoffs starting.