Winnipeg Jets Re-Sign Spencer Machacek, Is Evander Kane Next?

The Winnipeg Jets have re-signed restricted free agent Spencer Machacek, according to the Winnipeg Free Press.

The 23-year-old forward appeared in only 13 games with the Jets last season, but scored two goals and seven assists for nine points and was a plus-eight.

Machacek was selected in the third round (67th overall) by the Atlanta Thrashers in the 2007 NHL entry draft. Born in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, Machacek played for the Vancouver Giants of the WHL, winning the Memorial Cup in 2007. He spent three seasons with the AHL’s Chicago Wolves before suiting up for the St. John's IceCaps last season.

Evander Kane, who was also a member of the 2007 Memorial Cup champion Vancouver Giants, is Winnipeg’s last restricted free agent without a contract.

Kane signed autographs at an EB Games store in Winnipeg Monday, promoting the release of EA Sports' NHL 13. When asked about his future, the 21-year-old remained tight-lipped, refusing to shed light on his contract situation, (via Winnipeg Free Press).

The Jets reportedly offered Kane a six-year, $29 million contract in July, but nothing came of the offer. At one point rumors had surfaced that Kane was interested in leaving Winnipeg, but Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff and Kane’s agent have both denied these rumors.

It’s possible that Kane and his agent, Craig Oster, are seeking a deal similar to those signed this summer by some of the NHL’s other young forwards.

Jeff Skinner signed a six-year, $34.35 million contract with the Carolina Hurricanes. Taylor Hall signed a seven-year, $42 million deal with the Edmonton Oilers. Hall’s teammate Jordan Eberle will also be in Edmonton for a while after signing a six-year deal worth $36 million. Finally, Tyler Seguin just signed a six-year, $34.5 million contract with the Boston Bruins.

However, with the lockout looming, Kane may not have the opportunity to sign such a contract. Kane, P.K. Subban and a few other restricted free agents could remain unsigned for a number of months should the NHL lockout its players.

Evander Kane may indeed be the next player to sign with the Winnipeg Jets, but the announcement may not come for some time.