The Winnipeg Jets watched another defenceman bolt to a new team Thursday when Ben Chiarot signed a three-year deal with the Montreal Canadiens.
The US$10.5-million deal has an annual salary cap hit of US$3.5 million, more than the cash-strapped Jets were willing to pay the 6-3, 220-pound unrestricted free agent.
Chiarot played parts of five seasons in Winnipeg, setting career marks in goals (five), points (20) and games played (78) during the 2018-19 campaign when he was often partnered with Dustin Byfuglien on the Jets' second defensive unit.
In 305 career NHL games, he has 12 goals and 52 assists.