This summer, Jason Newland and I will continue our series looking at potential free agent targets who could be available on July 1.
Target: Mason Appleton – C – 7 Years Experience
Appleton, 29, has been a steady presence with the Winnipeg Jets for most of his career. He spent a brief stint with the Seattle Kraken after being selected in the expansion draft but was traded back to Winnipeg during the 2021–22 season and has been part of their core bottom-six ever since. With the Jets having such a strong year and Appleton playing a solid role, it would be a bit surprising to see him hit the open market.
That said, if he does become a free agent without a deal in place, there will be plenty of interest. At least half a dozen teams could come calling — and the Columbus Blue Jackets should be one of them.
Stats
This season, Appleton put up 10 goals and 12 assists for 22 points in 71 games. Through seven NHL seasons, he’s played in 400 games, scored 57 goals, and added 81 assists for 138 points. His best season came just a year ago when he recorded 36 points in a full 82-game campaign.
Previous Salary
He’s wrapping up a three-year contract that carried a $2.1 million AAV and totaled $6.5 million. The expectation is that his next deal will come in around the three-year mark again, likely in the $3.2 million AAV range.
Realistic Chances of a Signing: Warm
If the Jets let him walk, there’s a decent chance Appleton ends up in Columbus. The Blue Jackets are looking to round out their bottom six and improve defensively. Appleton is a reliable defensive forward who can chip in 20–30 points. If he becomes available, GM Don Waddell should at least pick up the phone. Appleton’s style of play could be a real fit in Columbus.
