The veteran forward’s sudden departure from New York’s front office sparks speculation regarding a potential homecoming with the Winnipeg Jets, where he remains a franchise icon.
On Friday, it was announced former Winnipeg Jets captain Blake Wheeler has stepped down from his role as a hockey operations adviser with the New York Rangers after one season with the organization, per multiple sources.
Wheeler joined the Rangers in a hockey operations capacity for the 2025-26 campaign after bringing his playing career to an end. The veteran forward had last suited up professionally for New York during the 2023-24 season before retiring.
Now, with his time in New York's front office coming to an end, Wheeler could once again become an intriguing name for the Winnipeg Jets if the organization has an opportunity to bring him back in a hockey operations or advisory role.
Wheeler spent the majority of his 17-year NHL career in Winnipeg, where he became one of the most recognizable players in franchise history. After arriving from the Atlanta Thrashers organization, Wheeler quickly established himself as a key piece of the Jets and eventually became the club's captain.
His tenure as captain made Wheeler one of the central figures of the Jets' return to Winnipeg, and he remained a prominent leader within the organization for years.
Over a career that also included stops with the Boston Bruins, Atlanta Thrashers, Winnipeg Jets and New York Rangers, Wheeler recorded 321 goals and 622 assists for 943 points in 1,172 regular-season games.
While Wheeler's playing days are now behind him, his experience, leadership and familiarity with the Jets organization could make him a natural fit for a future role in Winnipeg. Wheeler is already expected to return to Manitoba in late October, when the Jets face off against the Montreal Canadiens in the 2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic, where he will play with the Jets alumni team.
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