The Winnipeg Jets have reassigned forwards Brad Lambert and Nikita Chibrikov to the AHL’s Manitoba Moose, meaning they won’t be part of the team’s opening-night roster. Defensemen Ville Heinola and Logan Stanley have been placed on injured reserve, according to the league’s media portal.
Lambert, 20, was competing for a second-line spot but will head to the minors for further development. Drafted 30th overall in 2022, Lambert led the Moose in scoring last season with 55 points in 64 games. He made his NHL debut late last season, but despite his potential, he’s expected to spend more time in the AHL before returning to the Jets’ lineup.
Chibrikov, a 2021 second-round pick, was a less likely candidate for a roster spot but impressed during camp. The 21-year-old had a solid AHL debut last season, scoring 47 points in 70 games. His development took a leap after limited opportunities in Russian leagues, and he’ll continue to grow with the Moose.
Heinola and Stanley’s placement on IR is largely procedural. Heinola is recovering from an ankle infection, while Stanley had minor knee surgery and is expected back later this month. Dylan Coghlan and Haydn Fleury will fill in for them on the Jets’ NHL roster after signing two-way contracts over the summer.
