Jets bolster defensive lineup
The Winnipeg Jets have signed defenceman Mario Ferraro to a three-year contract. This move follows a busy period for the team, which also saw the signing of goaltender Stu Skinner earlier on Wednesday. Ferraro’s deal carries an average annual value of US$4 million, while Skinner’s contract is for two years with an average annual value of $3.75 million.
Ferraro, a left-shot blue-liner, spent his entire career with the San Jose Sharks before becoming a free agent. He was a second-round pick, 49th overall, by the Sharks in the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. His signing is considered a significant acquisition, as he was noted as one of the top defencemen available in the free agent market.
In addition to Ferraro and Skinner, the Jets also signed depth forward Noah Gregor to a one-year, two-way deal. Gregor’s contract is structured to pay him $850,000 at the NHL level and $450,000 if he plays in the minor leagues, according to Puck Pedia. These signings collectively mark a productive day for the Jets’ franchise.
Ferraro’s career with the Sharks
During his seven-year tenure with the San Jose Sharks, Mario Ferraro played in 490 NHL games. Over this period, he accumulated 24 goals and 90 assists, totalling 114 points. Ferraro is particularly recognized for his defensive capabilities, which were highlighted by his performance last season.
Last season, Ferraro led the Sharks in blocked shots with 150 and also in shorthanded playing time, logging 277:11. He was third on the team in average ice time per game, with 21:02, trailing only Macklin Celebrini and fellow defenceman Dmitry Orlov. The Toronto native appeared in all 82 games this past season, recording seven goals and 16 assists for 23 points.
Before joining the Sharks, Ferraro played two years at U-Mass Amherst in the NCAA Hockey East conference. He signed an entry-level deal with San Jose in April of 2019. Despite his extensive career with the Sharks, Ferraro has not yet appeared in a Stanley Cup Playoff game.
Winnipeg’s strategic offseason moves
The acquisition of Mario Ferraro is part of a broader strategic offseason for the Winnipeg Jets, overseen by general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff. The team’s moves suggest an effort to remain competitive while navigating potential roster changes, including the future of goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
The addition of Ferraro strengthens the Jets’ blue line, which now includes players such as Josh Morrissey, Neal Pionk, Dylan DeMelo, and Dylan Samberg. This defensive group is expected to be further supported by other depth pieces like Haydn Fleury, who will also be competing for ice time.
The signing of Stuart Skinner earlier on Wednesday provides the Jets with options in net. Skinner could serve as a backup to Hellebuyck if he remains with the team, or he could become a key part of the goaltending solution if Hellebuyck is traded. These moves are aimed at helping the Jets return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs after missing out last year.
Mario Ferraro is scheduled to speak with the media on Thursday morning regarding his new contract with the Winnipeg Jets.
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Source: globalnews.ca
