Jets avoid arbitration with Neal Pionk, sign him to four-year extension

The Winnipeg Jets have locked up one of their top defenceman to a long-term deal.

The team has announced that they have inked veteran Neal Pionk to a four-year, $23.5-million contract extension that has an average annual value of $5.875 million.

The 26-year old, who was initially acquired in a trade with the New York Rangers back in June 2019, amassed three goals and 29 assists in 54 games for the Jets during the pandemic-shortened 2021 NHL season.