Winnipeg Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff recently had a lengthy discussion with Nikolaj Ehlers’ agent regarding the forward's future, indicating a strong desire to retain the talented player as he heads into unrestricted free agency this offseason. Cheveldayoff expressed confidence in Ehlers, whom the Jets drafted and developed, and emphasized their commitment to presenting a compelling case for him to remain a Jet long-term.

In addition to Ehlers, the Jets will be addressing several other players’ contracts, including Mason Appleton and Brandon Tanev, as they navigate a pivotal offseason amidst potential roster changes. Meanwhile, discussions around the Toronto Maple Leafs’ strategies have also emerged, particularly focusing on the impact of Mitch Marner's absence and the need for depth scoring similar to the Florida Panthers, with the possibility of Ehlers being considered as a viable option.

Kevin Cheveldayoff, GM of the Winnipeg Jets, has been named a finalist for the prestigious Jim Gregory Award, recognizing excellence among NHL general managers. Having previously finished as a runner-up in 2018, Cheveldayoff led the Jets to a franchise-best regular season with a 56-22-4 record, securing the Presidents' Trophy. His offseason activity began with the hiring of coach Scott Arniel, already a finalist for the Jack Adams Award for top coach. Cheveldayoff strategically bolstered the Jets by acquiring Brandon Tanev and Luke Schenn at the trade deadline, enhancing a talented roster that includes Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Connor Hellebuyck, all of whom were drafted under his tenure. The Jets made a commendable playoff run, reaching the second round before being eliminated by the Dallas Stars.

Meanwhile, Jim Nill of the Dallas Stars, another finalist, is contending for the award for a record fifth time, having won it in both 2023 and 2024. Nill has overseen a transformative period for the Stars, who finished with 106 points this season and advanced deep into the playoffs after enhancing their roster with the addition of winger Mikko Rantanen. The Florida Panthers' Bill Zito completes the trio of finalists, coming off a solid regular season and a strong performance in the playoffs, where his team eliminated formidable opponents, Tampa Bay and Toronto, to reach the Eastern Conference Finals.

The finalists for the 2024-25 Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award have been announced, recognizing Kevin Cheveldayoff of the Winnipeg Jets, Jim Nill of the Dallas Stars, and Bill Zito of the Florida Panthers.

Under Cheveldayoff, the Jets notched their best regular season to date, clinching the Presidents' Trophy with a 56-22-4 record. His strategic hiring of head coach Scott Arniel led to unprecedented victories, including the team's historic start. Conversely, Nill's Stars achieved a solid 50-26-6 record, securing a top-five position for consecutive seasons and bolstering their roster with impactful trades, notably acquiring Mikko Rantanen. Zito's Panthers, maintaining momentum from their championship run, made key acquisitions to maintain competitive edge, aiming for a third consecutive trip to the Stanley Cup Final.

Kevin Cheveldayoff, general manager of the Winnipeg Jets, has been nominated for the prestigious Jim Gregory Award, recognizing the best GM in the NHL. Alongside him are Jim Nill of the Dallas Stars and Bill Zito of the Florida Panthers. Cheveldayoff's efforts helped the Jets achieve a franchise record with a 56-22-4 season, culminating in a Presidents’ Trophy win. His offseason included hiring Scott Arneil as head coach and strategic trades that bolstered the roster. The Jets reached the second round of the playoffs before falling to Nill's Stars, who have also made significant strides, including adding Mikko Rantanen for playoff push.

Zito's Panthers have shown resilience post-Stanley Cup victory, advancing to the Eastern Conference final for three consecutive years. The award is named after Jim Gregory, a celebrated figure in hockey management. With Cheveldayoff aiming to secure the award he was a runner-up for in 2018, anticipation builds for the announcement in 2025.

Jim Nill, Kevin Cheveldayoff, and Bill Zito have been announced as the finalists for this year's Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award, highlighting their significant contributions to their respective NHL teams. Nill, at the helm of the Dallas Stars, has led the team to the Western Conference finals for three consecutive seasons, showcasing consistent high-level performance. Cheveldayoff, managing the Winnipeg Jets, secured the Presidents' Trophy this season, marking a successful tenure of over a decade. Meanwhile, Zito aims to lead the Florida Panthers to a third straight Stanley Cup Final appearance, a feat that emphasizes his strategic prowess in the league.