Versatility, Generosity, and a Commitment to Winnipeg

Alex Iafallo is known for his willingness to help, both on and off the ice. This season, the Winnipeg Jets forward has been flexible with his role in the lineup, adapting to changes without complaint. He also signed a three-year contract extension before the NHL playoffs, accepting a lower salary than his previous deal.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Iafallo demonstrated his generosity by purchasing and delivering dinners for his mother and her colleagues, who were nurses at the Buffalo General Medical Center. He believes that everyone has the capacity to help and that it's simply a matter of acting on it.

The 31-year-old from Eden, N.Y., may soon need to embrace his adaptable nature again as the Jets prepare for Game 3 in St. Louis. Iafallo was moved to the top line after an injury to Gabriel Vilardi. He has been playing alongside Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele, but Vilardi is nearing a return.

Iafallo is prepared to adjust to any changes in his role. He approaches the playoffs with a focused mindset, ready to contribute on any line he is assigned to. He embraces his reputation as a versatile player, a characteristic he has cultivated since being signed by the Los Angeles Kings in 2017-18.

In the spring of 2020, the pandemic paused his hockey career. Iafallo returned home to be with his parents and sister. Witnessing his mother's dedication as she worked long hours on a unit for COVID-19 patients inspired him to find a way to give back.

He arranged to bring dinner for the staff one evening. After purchasing chicken parmesan from a local restaurant, he carefully transported the meals. Upon arrival, he had to have his temperature checked before entering the building. His mother helped him deliver the dinners to her unit.

Iafallo's commitment to helping extends to the Winnipeg community, where he has been involved since being traded to the Jets in June 2023. He and teammate Nino Niederreiter have coached young hockey players through the team's True North Youth Foundation.

His positive experience with the team led him to re-sign with the Jets. His new contract, which begins next season, will see him earn an average annual salary of US$3.66 million. He expressed his satisfaction with the team and his desire to remain with them.