Winnipeg Jets Secure Neal Pionk with $42 Million Extension, Boosting Defense for Future Seasons
April 18, 2025
He has been primarily paired with Dylan Samberg on the Jets' second defensive pairing, averaging over 22 minutes of ice time per game.
Jets coach Scott Arniel praised Pionk's leadership and all-around game, highlighting his importance to the team's success.
In the 2024-25 season, Pionk recorded 39 points, including 10 goals and 29 assists, over 69 games, contributing to the Jets' remarkable season.
The Winnipeg Jets have signed defenseman Neal Pionk to a six-year contract extension worth $42 million, announced on April 17, 2025.
At 29 years old, Pionk was a pending unrestricted free agent and was expected to be in high demand on the open market.
The Jets finished the regular season with a record of 56-22-4, earning the Presidents' Trophy as the NHL's top team.
Pionk emphasized the unique atmosphere of Winnipeg's Whiteout during the playoffs, calling it the best he has experienced in hockey.
The Jets will begin their playoff series against the St. Louis Blues on April 19, 2025, at Canada Life Centre.
Pionk has accumulated 256 points, consisting of 44 goals and 212 assists, in 536 career NHL games.
Originally signed by the New York Rangers as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Pionk was acquired by the Jets in June 2019.
Pionk's performance has significantly bolstered Winnipeg's effective defense in front of goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
This contract has an average annual value of $7 million and will commence in the 2025-26 season.
Summary based on 3 sources
Get a daily email with more NHL stories
Sources

ESPN • Apr 17, 2025
Jets sign pending free agent Neal Pionk to 6-year, $42M deal - ESPN
NHL logo • Apr 18, 2025
Pionk signs 6-year, $42 million contract with Jets
thecanadianpressnews.ca • Apr 17, 2025
Jets sign defenceman Neal Pionk to six-year contract extension