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Pierre-Luc Dubois’ reported intention to test the 2024 unrestricted free-agent market generated anxiety among Winnipeg Jets followers and created a stir in the rumor mill. It didn’t take long for reports to emerge linking the 24-year-old center to other clubs.
Dubois is a restricted free agent with arbitration rights on July 13. Sportsnet’s Ken Wiebe cited a report by RDS’ Francois Gagnon claiming the Jets have had ongoing negotiations regarding Dubois with the New York Rangers.
While a deal doesn’t appear to be close, Gagnon claimed Rangers general manager Chris Drury was very interested. Drury could be in the market for a second-line center with Ryan Strome slated to become an unrestricted free agent. The Blueshirts had been linked for Dubois’ teammate Mark Scheifele.
The New York Post‘s Larry Brooks believes Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff made the initial call to Drury, acknowledging the latter’s willingness to entertain trade offers. Brooks is against the Rangers pursuing Dubois, claiming their limited cap space would make it difficult to keep Dubois from the UFA market in two years’ time. He also fears the Jets would want promising center Filip Chytil as part of the return.
Wiebe also said the Montreal Canadiens have an interest in the power forward. The Athletic’s Murat Ates reported on June 24 that he felt Dubois would like to play in Montreal and has expressed that desire within team circles.
It’s believed the Jets intend to sign Dubois to a one-year contract and spend next season attempting to convince him to change his long-term plans. Nevertheless, these reports suggest Cheveldayoff is considering all his options.
