Winnipeg Jets NHL Trade Rumors: Drew Stafford Attracting Interest Ahead of Deadline
Things have been relatively quiet in Winnipeg. While most teams are busy making last minute moves before the trade deadline, the Jets have chosen to stand pat. The Jets may not be active in the trade market, but one of their players is reportedly attracting interest from a number of teams ahead of the deadline.
According to ESPN's Craig Custance, the Jets are getting calls on forward Drew Stafford and he may be on the move before the trade window closes.
Stafford's number may have declined this season due to injuries and lack of playing time, but he has always been a productive player and he has proven that time and time again over the course of his career.
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In an interview with the Winnipeg Sun, Stafford admitted that he has heard of the rumors, but he said he's doing his best to block the distractions and focus on playing.
"It's only natural when you get asked about it, you have to think about it. But for the most part, it's focusing on doing my job, as far as making sure I'm ready to go and ready to play and help this team win games," he said during the interview with the Winnipeg Sun. "I signed a contract to win here. I had the taste of coming here and making the playoffs and felt we had the group to do that. That's where my mind is at. Whatever else happens is out of my control," he continued.
The Jets have a surplus of forwards, so moving Stafford isn't going to mess up their roster. He is also in the final year of his contract and he will become an unrestricted free agent in the offseason. Teams looking for a rental who can provide some forward depth for a deep run into the playoffs will undoubtedly keep an eye on him with the trade deadline approaching.
