Jiri Tlusty traded to Jets

The Winnipeg Jets acquired forward Jiri Tlusty from the Carolina Hurricanes on Wednesday in exchange for a third-round draft pick in 2016 and a conditional choice in 2015.

"The third-round pick is a high price to pay at this time of the year," said Jets General Manager Kevin​ Cheveldayoff. "It's certainly something that we don't take lightly, but as a group here we're trying to push. We're trying to push this group to give it an opportunity to make the playoffs and help in the development of this franchise."

Tlutsy, 26, spent parts of six seasons with Carolina, recording 145 points (76 goals) in 322 games with the Hurricanes. He had career-highs in goals (23) and points (38) during the lockout shortened 2013 season.

"We feel excited about adding Jiri to our group and we're looking forward to getting a couple players back in the lineup as soon as possible, health permitting, in Wheeler and Halischuk. And, obviously, when Matty Perreault is ready it'll be a big boost," Cheveldayoff said.

This season, Tlusty has 23 points (13 goals) in 52 games.

The conditional pick will be in the fifth round if Winnipeg qualifies for this year's playoffs, or the sixth round if they do not.

With the trade deadline just around the corner it's possible Winnipeg may make more changes to the roster but nothing specific is in the works.

"I'd rather under-promise and over-deliver," Cheveldayoff said. "Again, you don't know how these things play out.

"We will be active on the phones up until the chiming of the deadline, but that doesn't necessarily mean there is something that is out there."