The Winnipeg Jets are facing challenges in the 2025-26 NHL season, unexpectedly struggling in the Central Division despite hopes to build on last year’s President’s Trophy-winning performance. As the NHL pauses for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, tough roster decisions await Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff ahead of the March 6 trade deadline, with defenseman Luke Schenn among the players likely to be traded.
After a full season with the Jets following a midseason acquisition from the Nashville Predators, Schenn’s role has diminished, averaging under 14 minutes per game and even being a healthy scratch on New Year’s Day before what would have been his 1,100th NHL game. With his contract expiring and openness to a new team, Schenn’s experience as a right-shot defenseman with over 1,100 NHL games makes him a desirable yet affordable option for contenders seeking to strengthen their blue line.
Possible Return to Toronto: A Familiar Setting for Schenn
The Toronto Maple Leafs have faced significant setbacks this season, notably with veteran right-shot defenseman Chris Tanev sidelined for extended periods and possibly missing the remainder of the campaign. Given Schenn’s history in Toronto—being a first-round pick in the 2008 NHL Draft and having rejoined the Leafs briefly during their 2023 playoff run—he could be a logical fit as the team searches for depth on defense.
Insider Chris Johnston of TSN has pointed to murmurs that the Maple Leafs may be considering bringing Schenn back for a third stint. He noted,
“There’s already some rumblings around that they’re even looking at a third trip through with Luke Schenn right now,”
and added,
“Obviously, at this stage of Luke’s career, I think that the acquisition cost would be more modest and worked really well with him and Morgan Rielly. So we’ll see if that’s something that comes to fruition, but certainly have heard some talk in that direction.”
Schenn brings with him the advantage of being a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning (2020, 2021). His presence would add to a small group of Leafs players and staff with prior championship success, including Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Nicolas Roy, Steven Lorentz, Anthony Stolarz, and head coach Craig Berube.
Staying in the West: Potential Fit with the Edmonton Oilers
Having played for several Western Conference teams, Schenn could find a new home closer to his recent playing geography. The Edmonton Oilers, fresh off consecutive Stanley Cup Final losses to the Florida Panthers, are motivated to strengthen their roster for a deep playoff run. They have shown interest in adding defensive depth similar to what Mattias Ekholm offers.
David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period has suggested that Edmonton remains focused on bolstering their blue line. He explained,
“I think the Oilers would like to add a little more scoring depth on the wingers, more than anything. I still believe this is a team that would like to bring in an ‘Ekholm Jr.’ type of player on the backend to help solidify that d-core.”
Given Schenn’s championship experience and veteran presence, he could be an economical addition to Edmonton’s defensive corps as they pursue their first Stanley Cup since 1990.
Jets’ Current Challenges and Upcoming Decisions
The Jets’ disappointing performance this season has placed them near the bottom of the Central Division, trailing last-place St. Louis Blues by a mere three points. This unexpected slump follows their ambitious plans post-Nikolaj Ehlers’ departure to the Carolina Hurricanes in free agency. With several key players, including future Hall of Famer Jonathan Toews and depth forward Gustav Nyquist, approaching free agency, General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff’s upcoming choices could significantly reshape the team’s future.
Among those players, multiple defensemen are on expiring contracts, making trades a probable outcome. Luke Schenn, in particular, stands out as a veteran defenseman who could be moved in the near term, as reported by TSN’s Chris Johnston:
“They have a lot of defensemen, and it’s pretty clear that Luke Schenn is one of the pieces they’re dangling, he’s another player I could see dealt relatively near term.”
Anticipated Impact of Schenn’s Potential Move
Luke Schenn’s possible transfer before the 2026 NHL trade deadline reflects the Jets’ need to adjust their roster amid a challenging season. For acquiring teams like Toronto or Edmonton, Schenn offers championship experience, reliable defensive play, and the versatility of a right-handed defenseman with significant NHL tenure. His addition could provide veteran stability for playoff-bound clubs aiming to make a serious postseason push.
As the trade deadline approaches, monitoring Schenn’s status will be crucial for followers of the NHL, especially given his connections to prominent organizations and the potential ripple effects on the playoff landscape. Whether he returns to Toronto, stays in the Western Conference with Edmonton, or finds another suitor, Schenn’s movement signals strategic shifts across multiple teams preparing for the final stretch of the season.
