It appears increasingly unlikely that Dustin Byfuglien will play in the NHL this season.
The Winnipeg Jets defenseman, who took a leave of absence in September that eventually turned into a suspension as the team looked to avoid paying his $7.6 million salary, seems no closer to a return after missing the first 53 games of the campaign. According to a tweet from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman on Saturday, Byfuglien has "yet to resume skating" and will probably not come to a decision about his future until the summer.
This could open up the Jets cap situation if they wish to make moves....they've had to "hold" his $7.6M hit until they knew his plans.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) February 2, 2020
Byfuglien underwent ankle surgery in October which further complicated the issue as Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff told reporters Dec. 30 that the team was not directing the 34-year-old's recovery.
Winnipeg is 26-23-4 and fighting for a wild card spot. Should Byfuglien's cap hit become available ahead of the trade deadline, the Jets could make a substantial move as they chase a playoff berth for the third consecutive season.