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"I wanted to be back in Winnipeg for a good amount of time," Lowry told the Jets website. "It's where I broke into the League, they're the team that drafted me and gave me the opportunity to play in the NHL. ... To be able to sign for three more years, I'm ecstatic."
The 25-year-old forward had 21 points (eight goals, 13 assists) in 45 games with the Jets last season, missing time because of two upper-body injuries. He avoided an arbitration hearing scheduled for Sunday.
"Obviously everyone wants to be a goal-scorer, and scoring goals is a lot of fun and getting points, the offensive side of the game is a bit more glamorous," Lowry said. "But I think our line with Andrew Copp and Brandon Tanev, we formed an identity this year. I felt we were able to grow as a line and grow that chemistry. They both really helped propel my game forward."
Lowry had two assists in 17 Stanley Cup Playoff games to help the Jets reach the Western Conference Final, where they were defeated by the Vegas Golden Knights in five games.
"It certainly was disappointing coming up short and losing in the Conference Final, but just seeing the passion the fans had at Bell MTS Place, seeing how loud it got and the atmosphere around the city, and knowing that I get to be in a hockey market and somewhere the fans really care about the team; they really care about us succeeding," Lowry said. "That was an opportunity I didn't want to pass up."
Selected by Winnipeg in the third round (No. 67) of the 2011 NHL Draft, Lowry has 90 points (41 goals, 49 assists) in 281 regular-season games and five points (one goal, four assists) in 21 playoff games.
"Getting the opportunity to go up against the other team's top lines, it's something that it's always fun to be challenged, and to know that you're playing a vital role," Lowry said. "You may not be scoring all the goals, but you're still providing a huge boost for your team if you're able to keep those guys off the score sheet. ... It gives your team a great chance to win games."
Winnipeg has four other restricted free agents who filed for arbitration. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck signed a six-year, $37 million contract ($6.67 AAV) on July 12 to avoid an arbitration hearing.
Defenseman Jacob Trouba (July 20) and forwards Brandon Tanev (July 25) and Marko Dano (July 30) each have a hearing scheduled.
"I really believe in this team we have," Lowry said. "We have such a great group of guys. I don't think that's the case everywhere, that everyone gets along and we're all good friends. It's a lot of fun coming to the rink every day, putting on that sweater, and playing with the guys we have in Winnipeg. I definitely wanted to continue to be a part of that."
