This afternoon a new report from Jets' insider Murat Ates has given a crucial update on where things stand between the organization and Nikolaj Ehlers. Since the Winnipeg Jets season came to a close <a href='https://www.hockeylatest.com/nhl-team/winnipeg-jets/nhl-insider-elliotte-friedman-provides-update-on-nikolaj-ehlers-free-agency-plans' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>reports have indicated</a> that Nikolaj Ehlers would be testing free agency and likely leaving the team. With Ehlers becoming an unrestricted free agent in a matter of weeks NHL insider Murat Ates decided to do a deep dive on the situation and was able to provide some hope that Ehlers could return. <h3>Winnipeg Jets Leaving The Door Open For A Nikolaj Ehlers Return</h3> Earlier this week, the <a href='https://www.hockeylatest.com/nhl-team/winnipeg-jets/three-time-cup-champ-jonathan-toews-agrees-to-join-his-hometown-team-the-winnipeg-jets' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>Winnipeg Jets signed Jonathan Toews</a> to a contract for the upcoming 2025-26 season. To many people, this move was a sign that the Jets would not be bringing back Ehlers and instead would replace him with Toews. However, according to Murat Ates this is not the case as both Ehlers and the Jets are leaving discussions open. He has said he loves Winnipeg and his teammates and nothing more, including in one-on-one conversations throughout the season. The impact of this approach is to leave the door open. Ates continued and admitted that the most likely scenario for a reunion between the Jets and Ehlers would be if the Danish winger does not get the offers he expects on the open market. If (and when) he explores the UFA market, he'll have the opportunity to evaluate an array of offers, contrast them with the Jets' offer, and - if he finds the grass doesn't look greener - he'll be able to circle back. At the end of the day, it is still unlikely that Ehlers is a Winnipeg Jet next season but the opportunity still remains open for a reunion for the future. As much as I expect Ehlers to sign elsewhere, he hasn't burned any bridges, nor have the Jets. As NHL free agency draws near we will pass along all of the latest reports on Ehlers' future and the Winnipeg Jets free agency plans.