With Nikolaj Ehlers potentially heading to unrestricted free agency, the Winnipeg Jets face the challenge of replacing a significant piece of their offense. Ehlers, who has spent his entire 10-year career with the Jets, has been a consistent offensive contributor. While the door isn't completely closed on his return to Winnipeg, the Jets need to explore alternative options to fill the void if he signs elsewhere. Fortunately, the Jets have a projected $23.5 million in cap space to work with, giving them flexibility in pursuing free agents. Here are three potential free-agent targets for the Jets:

1. Brock Boeser (RW)

Brock Boeser could be a prime target for the Jets if Ehlers departs. Boeser, a right-winger, has spent his entire career with the Vancouver Canucks. While not as dynamic or quick as Ehlers, Boeser offers a strong offensive presence and could slot into the second line. In the past season, Boeser scored 25 goals and 25 assists in 75 games. He is known as a pure shooter and has a track record of scoring goals. Boeser had a career-high of 40 goals in the 2023-24 season and has surpassed the 20-goal mark six times in his career. TSN's Insider Trading has linked Boeser to Winnipeg.

2. JJ Peterka (LW/RW)

JJ Peterka is another player who could be a good fit for the Jets if they lose Ehlers. Peterka is viewed as one of the NHL's top trade candidates and there is a strong possibility he will be traded by the Buffalo Sabres. The young winger is coming off a strong season, where he scored 27 goals and set career highs with 41 assists and 68 points in 77 games.

3. Alexis Lafreniere (LW)

Alexis Lafreniere could be a trade target for the Jets. The New York Rangers are expected to be active this offseason and Lafreniere's name has been circulating in trade rumors. He is signed until the end of the 2031-32 season and does not have any trade protection yet.

While these players might not directly replace Ehlers' role, they can contribute to the Jets' offensive output and help maintain their competitiveness. Other potential UFA targets for the Jets include Mikael Granlund. The Jets also need to prioritize re-signing their restricted free agents, Gabriel Vilardi and Dylan Samberg.