Despite their strong performance this season, the Winnipeg Jets have become an undesirable destination for many NHL players. A recent survey by The Athletic asked 82 players which team would be at the top of their no-trade list, and nearly 49% of them named the Jets. The primary reasons? Harsh winters, high taxes, and a perceived lack of entertainment options.
Players Speak Out
While Winnipeg boasts a passionate hockey fan base, the city’s brutal winters make it less appealing to players. One NHLer bluntly summed up the situation, saying:
“There’s not much to do out there. It’s too cold. I haven’t heard a guy go to Winnipeg and say, ‘This is my forever home.’” (via The Athletic)
Another player echoed this sentiment, listing his reasons for avoiding the team:
“Nothing to do, bad food, freezing.”
The temperatures in Winnipeg during the winter are no joke. January lows often fall between -5°F to -9°F (-20°C to -22°C), with historical extremes plunging as low as -49°F (-45°C). In contrast, warmer markets like Tampa Bay, Los Angeles, and Dallas offer more pleasant climates, making them more desirable destinations.
More Than Just the Weather: Taxes Are a Major Concern
While the freezing temperatures are a deterrent, the financial impact of playing in Winnipeg is another major issue. Manitoba has the second-highest tax rate in Canada, trailing only Prince Edward Island. Players on the Jets take home significantly less compared to those in lower-tax markets, especially in U.S. states like Florida, Texas, and Nevada, where there is no state income tax.
For an NHL player with a multi-million-dollar contract, the difference in take-home pay can be substantial. The financial burden, combined with the extreme weather, makes Winnipeg a tough sell compared to American teams in more tax-friendly regions.
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