The Winnipeg Jets Have Just Found Their Next Superstar Elite Defenseman

Dylan Samberg is having a breakout season in every way. The Winnipeg Jets blueliner has elevated his play to establish himself as a first-rate, all-around defenseman.

His play against the Dallas Stars and Seattle Kraken demonstrates the kind of impact he's having.

Others have taken notice, and perhaps none more so than Dylan DeMelo, the Jets' veteran defense anchor. Samberg is positioning himself well to emerge as Winnipeg's next great defenseman.

At 26, he's exceeded expectations, playing in a top-four position. There were questions early this season if he could do it, but he's answered them emphatically.

The Jets are a much better team when Samberg is in the lineup, going 36-9-2 when he plays and 11-9-2 when he doesn't.

He's become an every-situation player. In Winnipeg's biggest game of the year against Dallas on March 14, he began the scoring at even strength and closed out the Stars' lone power play with key blocks and breakups.

The next night, he took over again, scoring the winner in overtime against Seattle and adding an assist.

Even in his younger years, Samberg was a reliable defender. His quickness, responsible stick work, and play-stopping skills have made him Winnipeg's best penalty killer.

Now, playing a larger role, his offense and puck confidence have taken a big step up. This breakout could not have come at a more opportune time, as Samberg is headed into a contract year as a pending RFA.

At 26, he's in line to get a long-term extension, and the Jets would be wise to ink him before they consider paying any other defenseman in free agency. He is their superstar.