Nikolaj Ehlers News

The Jets have signed Nikolaj Ehlers to a seven-year deal worth $42 million ($6.0M AAV).

Ehlers is entering the final year of a three-year deal, so this new deal won’t kick in until 2018-19 and it runs through the 2024-25 season. The 21-year-old is coming off of a great sophomore campaign, having collected 25 goals and 39 assists (64 points) in 82 games. Ehlers is positioned for another great year as he’s poised to start the season with Patrik Laine and Bryan Little.

Nikolaj Ehlers
Ehlers (eye) will not play on Tuesday; expected to return on Thursday.

Ehlers will miss his 10th consecutive game tonight vs. the Canucks, but he is expected to play Thursday in Nashville. The Jets are currently without five of their full-time forwards, so Ehlers’ return will be welcomed with open arms. He has had a solid rookie season, recording 13 goals and 18 assists (31 points) in 63 games.

Nikolaj Ehlers
The Jets have recalled Nikolaj Ehlers from Halifax (QMJHL).

Ehlers, 19, was the Jets first round pick (9th overall) in last summer’s entry draft. He had 101 points (37G / 64A) in 51 games with Halifax this season. In the playoffs, he registered 31 points (10G / 21A) in 14 games before they were eliminated. Ehlers is not expected to play, but he has been recalled to get an off-ice feel of NHL playoff hockey.

Nikolaj Ehlers
The Jets have signed first round pick Nikolaj Ehlers to a three-year, entry level contract.

Ehlers, 18, was selected ninth overall in the draft this summer. He has tremendous speed and an excellent wrist shot. He posted 49 goals and 55 assists (104 points) in 63 games with the Halifax Mooseheads last season. Ehlers was named the CHL's rookie of the year. He stands in at 5-foot-11, but needs to fill out (163 lbs.) to play in the NHL. He will probably return to juniors for one more season.

Nikolaj Ehlers