Winnipeg Jets Assign New Numbers to Offseason Additions

Winnipeg Jets have officially handed jersey numbers to five offseason arrivals, cementing their spots on the 2026‑27 roster as the team sits 12th in the Western Conference with a 35‑35 record and eyes a September 20 clash with the Edmonton Oilers.

Which players received numbers and why does it matter?

Stuart Skinner will wear No. 74, a first for the franchise since the move to Winnipeg in 2011. The 27‑year‑old goalie, who split last season between Edmonton and Pittsburgh, signed a two‑year deal and is expected to challenge for the starting netminder role. Mario Ferraro dons No. 38 after a three‑year contract; the left‑shot defenseman arrives from San Jose after 490 games, bringing depth to the blue line.

How do the other newcomers fit into the Jets’ lineup?

Henry Thrun selected No. 8, a number previously worn by Jacob Trouba during his seven‑year tenure before the 2019 trade. Noah Gregor will sport No. 73, following in the footsteps of Brandon Tanev and Tyler Toffoli, while Jack St. Ivany takes No. 6, a sweater once worn by Colin Miller. All three will need to earn roster spots in training camp, but the numbers tie them to recent Jets history.

What impact could Skinner and Ferraro have this season?

Skinner’s experience in two consecutive Stanley Cup Finals with Edmonton gives him a playoff‑ready edge, and his new number signals a fresh start in Winnipeg. Ferraro’s seven‑year stint with the Sharks means he brings a steady defensive presence; his No. 38 replaces the recent wearers Logan Shaw and Paul Postma, linking him to the team’s recent defensive core.

When do the Jets face their next test?

The Jets’ next scheduled game is against the Edmonton Oilers on September 20, 2026. That matchup will be the first real test of how the new numbers translate into on‑ice chemistry, especially for Skinner as he squares off against his former club.

What does this mean for the Jets’ playoff hopes?

With the club balanced at .500 and on a four‑game losing streak, the new additions could be the spark needed to climb out of the 12th‑place spot. If Skinner secures the starting role and Ferraro locks down the second defensive pairing, Winnipeg may find the consistency required to break the slump and push for a postseason berth.

How will the younger players earn their spots?

Thrun, Gregor and St. Ivany will need to impress during preseason scrimmages and earn trust from head coach Rick Bowness. Their numbers connect them to past Jets players, but performance on the ice will determine if they move from sweater to lineup.

What’s the fan reaction to the new jerseys?

Fans have taken to social media, posting photos of the fresh jerseys and debating which number will become iconic. The blend of veteran presence and youthful ambition has generated buzz ahead of training camp, setting the tone for a season that could swing either way.