Jets discussing extensions for both Ladd and Byfuglien

There are two significant Winnipeg Jets that are entering the last year of their contracts, and the Jets would like to lock both of them up before they hit the open market.

Those two are, of course, Andrew Ladd, the captain of the Jets, and big defenseman Dustin Byfuglien. Both should command a large price tag, and Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff will have to find the right price to fit both on the team.

According to Gary Lawless, sports columnist for the Winnipeg Free Press, both players are in preliminary talks with the Jets for a contract extension. Lawless writes:  

"Ladd wants to remain in Winnipeg. He has a young family and more and more this city is a fit. He also likes the organization and the work general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff has done. So, he’s willing to work with the Jets. But not at a $5-million or more discount. All told, Ladd’s next ticket is going to be worth in the range of $40 million."

Lawless believes that Ladd, who at 29 scored 62 points last season, can get a six year contract with an "average annual value north of $6 million."

Byfuglien's agent confirmed that he and his client are in preliminary talks with the club about a contract extension. Byfuglien scored 18 goals and 45 points last season. He will make $5.2 million next season, and if his offensive production continues, he should expect at least that much in his next contract with the Jets.

(h/t The Score)

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