It’s been two weeks since any new information in the Dustin Byfuglien situation with the Winnipeg Jets has been reported by the team or the media.
You may recall that TSN’s Frank Seravalli reported earlier in February that the Jets and Byfuglien were working toward a mutual contract termination that was expected to be done “over the next several days.” Well… that was in the first week of February and here we are on February 20th, so… what gives?
Here’s Seravalli’s report from earlier this month:
The Jets and defenceman Dustin Byfuglien are working toward a mutual contract termination over the next several days, according to multiple sources, which would formally end his suspension and bring to a close the grievance Byfuglien filed in November.
So, what happens once Byfuglien and the Jets officially part ways?
If executed, the contract termination would also make Byfuglien an unrestricted free agent, free to resume his career with any team of his choosing. That could be next week, next season or never again. Byfuglien’s on-ice future remains very much in doubt.
Again… what gives?
Well earlier today Seravalli updated his story on Byfuglien and, well frankly things have taken a turn that no one saw coming. Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff is now reportedly working hard to trade Byuflgien ahead of Monday’s NHL trade deadline.
Again from Seravalli:
Turns out, the Winnipeg Jets have waited to pull the trigger on a mutual contract termination with **Dustin Byfuglien** because multiple sources say the Jets are attempting to exhaust all trade options for the hulking defenceman.
After being thrust into an uncomfortable position by Byfuglien at the start of the season, Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff is now seeking to salvage a return.
Sources say suitors have been in regular contact with Cheveldayoff over the last weeks about Byfuglien’s future, but talks have only intensified in recent days leading up to the NHL’s Feb. 24 trade deadline.
So, in effect, if Buff isn’t traded before Monday afternoon at 3pm ET don’t be surprised if he and the Jets both rip up his contract. Stay tuned. There's still more to come when it comes to the divorce between Byfuglien and the Jets.
