Hurricanes' Nikolaj Ehlers Sends Jets Message After Stanley Cup Win

Nikolaj Ehlers finally reached the NHL summit on Sunday night, helping the Carolina Hurricanes defeat the Vegas Golden Knights 3-0 in Game 6 to capture the 2026 Stanley Cup. Yet moments after the victory, the veteran winger made it clear that his former team still holds a special place in his heart.

During an on-ice interview, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman relayed messages from Winnipeg Jets fans congratulating Ehlers on winning the Cup. The question triggered an emotional response from the Danish forward.

"I loved being in Winnipeg. This was the dream there," Ehlers said through tears. "I'm obviously sad that I wasn't able to do that with the guys in Winnipeg and the city of Winnipeg. They hold a special place in my heart, I've said that. They're family.

"The whole organization gave me a shot at playing in the NHL and, you know, I couldn't be more thankful."

"I loved being in Winnipeg...they hold a special place in my heart" -Nikolaj Ehlers to @FriedgeHNIC on his message to #NHLJets fans pic.twitter.com/LURVkcI7Hu

— Winnipeg Sports Talk (@SportsTalkWPG) June 15, 2026

Ehlers spent 10 seasons with the Jets after being selected ninth overall in the 2014 NHL Draft. Across 674 regular-season games, he recorded 225 goals and 520 points while helping the franchise become a consistent playoff contender. However, Winnipeg never advanced beyond four playoff series victories during his tenure.

After reaching unrestricted free agency in 2025, Ehlers chose a new challenge and signed a six-year, $51 million contract with Carolina. The move paid off immediately.

The 30-year-old became an important piece of Rod Brind'Amour's attack, contributing 18 points in 18 playoff games. He also scored the empty-net goal that sealed Carolina's championship-clinching victory.

"It was a hard decision this summer, but I love my 10 years in Winnipeg, and it was a special time," Ehlers added.

Ehlers' comments reflected both gratitude and closure. While Ehlers achieved the ultimate goal in Carolina, his emotional message showed that Winnipeg remains a major part of his hockey journey.

For Hurricanes fans, the signing delivered a championship. For Jets fans, it delivered pride mixed with what-if questions.

Related: Hurricanes React to Coach Rod Brind'Amour's Shirtless Stanley Cup Celebration

Related: Mitch Marner's Stanley Cup Final Stats Draw Attention After Golden Knights' Loss

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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 9:39 AM.