Jets' Wheeler lands six-year deal, avoids arbitration hearing

Blake Wheeler signed a six-year deal with the Winnipeg Jets worth more than $33 million on Friday night, thus avoiding a scheduled salary arbitration hearing on Monday.

Blake Wheeler led the Jets with 19 goals last season. (USATSI)

Forward Blake Wheeler and the Winnipeg Jets agreed on a six-year, $33.6 million dollar deal on Friday night, making him the Jets’ top-paid forward.

Wheeler’s deal avoids a salary arbitration hearing that was scheduled for Monday. The 26-year-old was one of five Jets players to file for arbitration, and all but defenseman Zach Bogosian have settled.

Wheeler had a team-high 19 goals last season for the Jets and was second on the team with 41 points. 

The deal marks a significant pay raise for Wheeler, who was on a $2.65 million dollar salary. 

Thrilled to be a Jet for 6 more years

— Blake Wheeler (@BiggieFunke) July 27, 2013