Gabriel Vilardi is signing a contract with the Winnipeg Jets. Rob Blake has traded him to the Jets in acquiring Pierre-Luc Dubois. Vilardi is signed for the next two years and he will have an AAV of $3.43 million. This is a great deal for both sides after a promising season.
Gabe Vilardi and Winnipeg have a pre-arbitration settlement: 2x$3.4375M
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 19, 2023
Vilardi Lands New Deal In Winnipeg
Gabriel Vilardi is a former first-round pick in the 2017 NHL Draft. He first made an appearance in the 2019-20 season, but he finally saw more game action the next season. Vilardi popped off for ten goals and 23 points in 54 games. The following season Vilardi played just 25 games, but this season he took his game to another level. After a career year, Gabriel Vilardi earned himself a new contract.
Gabriel Vilardi, signed 2x$3.4M by WPG, is a shoot-first two-way forward who creates chances for himself off extended possessions and finishes them well. He also draws loads of penalties. #GoJetsGo pic.twitter.com/zSsNp4FwWU
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) July 19, 2023
What This Means For The Player
This is a great contract for Gabriel Vilardi. The 6’3 215 pound winger showcased the kind of player he truly is. Vilardi finished the year with 23 goals, 18 assists, and 41 points. The number of goals he had matched his point total from his first full season. Vilardi was a player that thrived on the power play this season (14 points) and he went on to score six-game winning goals.
Vilardi having a healthy season as well as a career season is great for him and the club. This deal shows belief in him to be a piece going forward.
What This Means For The Jets
This is a great signing for the Winnipeg Jets. In landing their return for Dubois, Vilardi is a good building block. With this team entering a new era of hockey, forming the next wave is crucial. Vilardi joins superstar sniper Kyle Connor in hopes to form a new rejuvenated offence. The club is undergoing a retool and forming a new culture. Landing young Vilardi is great for the future and what they will be building.
Main Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
