Jets Just Put A Newly Signed Forward In Roster Limbo

The Winnipeg Jets' strategic roster decision could reshape their team dynamics as winger Walker Duehr hits the waiver wire.

The Winnipeg Jets have put veteran winger Walker Duehr on waivers, opening the door for any of the NHL’s other 31 teams to claim him.

If he clears, Winnipeg can send him to the Manitoba Moose, its AHL affiliate.

Duehr, 28, has not played this season after suffering a lower-body injury in the preseason. He was medically cleared and returned to full Jets practice on Friday, and the move to waivers appears aimed at getting him to the AHL.

The Sioux Falls, South Dakota native appeared in three games for Winnipeg last season and did not record a point. He was much more productive with Manitoba, posting 17 goals and 17 assists for 34 points in 62 games, then adding a goal and two assists in seven playoff games.

Duehr’s pro path started after a four-year collegiate run at Minnesota State University, Mankato. He signed with the Calgary Flames as an undrafted free agent in April of 2021 and spent more than three seasons in that organization, playing 84 NHL games and collecting nine goals and 10 assists for 19 points.

His time with Calgary ended when he was waived in January of 2025 and claimed by the San Jose Sharks. He played eight games for San Jose down the stretch last season, scoring two goals with no assists.

Before this season, Duehr signed a one-year, two-way contract with Winnipeg. Over the offseason, he agreed to a two-year, $1.75 million deal to remain with the Jets.

Winnipeg enters Tuesday’s game against the St. Louis Blues with a 4-2-2 record and 10 points through eight games. The team then heads to Dallas to face the Stars on Thursday.

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