What It Means:

Michael Hutchinson and Connor Hellebuyck are in line to defend the net for Winnipeg to open the season. If Pavelec clears waivers, the Jets intend to send him to Manitoba of the American Hockey League. The move is understandable after five seasons of inconsistent play from Pavelec, albeit somewhat surprising entering the final year of his five-year, $19.5 million deal.

The 29-year-old Pavelec struggled last season with a 2.78 goals against average and .904 save percentage in 33 games. He finished with a 13-13 record and one shutout.