I think naming an NHL team, after a minor league team, would be absolutely stupid. It really would. Whether TNSE wishes to disassociate itself with the history of NHL caliber hockey in Winnipeg or not, I have no idea. However, I don't think there's a single instance in NHL history where sentimentality would be as big as it is here. Long after the team departed for Phoenix, Winnipeg was still home of the Jets.
To draw a parallel, look at the ultimate small market in football. Green Bay. If NFL football ever left Green Bay, and were to return, can you imagine it coming back as anything other than the Packers? Do you think the fans there would really say "We don't care what the name is as long as we have a team?" Some things are just synonymous. Winnipeg = Jets. I'm not even from Winnipeg, and have no stake in the matter. However, I would find it absolutely ridiculous if the team name starts with "Manitoba" and even moreso if it ends with anything other than "Jets".
From a business and marketing standpoint, I can't see how you could willfully steer yourself away from the Winnipeg Jets. Anyone who thinks they wouldn't make as much money because the people there already have Jets merchandise, is Pejorative Slured. Tweak the logo a little, maybe the overall design of the jersey. But I guarantee you, you wouldn't be able to keep anything Jets related on the shelf in that city if they come back. I'm not saying they won't make plenty of loot on a brand new moniker...but I think it'll look bad when everyone shows up to a "Manitoba Maulers" game in their beloved Winnipeg Jets gear. And...they will. I'm sayin' it now.