Elias Salomonsson's Rise: Jets' Young Talent Shining

0:00For the NHL, it's March 20th. Here's what's happening. Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an update. One of the few bright spots in the Winnipeg Jets tough season has been the quick rise of 21-year-old defenseman Elias Salamanson. The Swedish prospect, drafted in the second round back in 2022, has stepped up as a reliable everyday player in the national hockey league. In 25 games, he's notched one goal in three assists, but his underlying stats stand out even more. Salamanson earned his spot after a strong rookie year in the American hockey league with the Manitoba Moose, where he tallyed 27 points and made the All-Star team. His first call up in late November was shaky with some mistakes, but since returning in mid-January, he's shown real growth in handling the NHL speed. Team mates and coaches have noticed the change right away. His partner, Dylan Samber, praised how Salamanson's confidence is building game by game. While head coach Scott Arneo likes his skating, vision and willingness to join the rush, injuries

1:04to veterans Colin Miller and Neo Pionk open the door for him on the second pairing. Advanced numbers back it up, with Salamanson leading Jets' defenseman and even strength of the coursey at 51.5% and expected goals for Atten, over 54%. His pairing with Samber has driven better chances than the team allowed with previous options like Luke Shen and Logan Stanley who got traded at the deadline. Looking ahead, the Jets should keep giving him big minutes, whether chasing a wild card or building for next year. Salamanson's emergence highlights while trusting young talent can pay off big time on the blue line.