What Happened
The Winnipeg Jets announced a roster addition on Monday by recalling forward Brayden Yager from the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League. Yager opened his minor-league campaign with five goals and four assists through six appearances. The 21-year-old center previously appeared in three scoreless NHL games with the Jets during the previous season. Originally selected 14th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2023 NHL Draft, Yager joined Winnipeg in an August 2024 trade that sent forward Rutger McGroarty to Pittsburgh. Team operations indicate Yager is a candidate to make his season debut on Tuesday when the Jets travel to face the St. Louis Blues.
Key Details
- Brayden Yager recalled by the Winnipeg Jets from the AHL Manitoba Moose.
- Yager notched five goals and four assists in six AHL games.
- He made his NHL debut last season with three scoreless appearances.
- Pittsburgh drafted him 14th overall in 2023 before trading him to Winnipeg in August 2024.
What It Means
The promotion rewards Yager for a strong offensive start in the AHL and provides the Jets with additional forward depth. Having previously acquired him as part of the Rutger McGroarty trade, Winnipeg continues to evaluate the young center's readiness for regular NHL duties.
What's Next
Yager could potentially make his first NHL appearance of the season on Tuesday when the Winnipeg Jets play away against the St. Louis Blues.