Jets address a huge need on the blueline, add veteran defenseman for a pair of draft picks

The Winnipeg Jets have shored up their blueline ahead of free agency with the acquisition of veteran defenseman Brenden Dillon late Monday evening.

The Jets' defense struggled mightily last season, necessitating a move by GM Kevin Cheveldayoff to bring in an experienced blueliner to solidify the back end.

The Jets gave up a pair of 2nd-round picks in the deal, helping to alleviate some of the Washington Capitals' salary cap issues by taking Dillon and his $3.9M salary off their hands. Dillon has 3 seasons remaining on the deal.

The hard-nosed defensive defenseman has suited up in 654 career regular season NHL games, amassing 133 points and 623 PIMs, with an additional 11 points and 79 PIMs coming in 75 postseason appearances.

A strong start to the offseason for the Jets here after a quality draft.

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