Jets Face Off Against Wild: Gameday Preview
As the Winnipeg Jets prepare for their upcoming match against the Minnesota Wild, they carry a streak of three consecutive victories. This successful run concludes a five-game homestand, where they achieved a record of 3-1-1. Their wins have propelled the Jets to an overall record of 18-22-5, making this road trip critical for their playoff aspirations.
Key Matchup: Jets vs. Wild
Head Coach Scott Arniel emphasized the importance of maintaining their momentum. He urged the team to keep “climbing the ladder” to close the distance on the playoff spots in the Western Conference. Arniel remarked, “Keep trying to do that, and hopefully other things will have to happen with other teams as well.”
Injury Concerns Ahead of the Game
The Jets face a significant challenge with injuries affecting their lineup. Three defensemen—Colin Miller, Haydn Fleury, and Neal Pionk—are currently week-to-week due to various injuries. Fleury is recovering from a broken nose and back issues sustained during a collision against the Vegas Golden Knights. Miller was injured following a hit against the New Jersey Devils, while Pionk has aggravated a prior injury.
Arniel acknowledged the impact of these injuries, particularly to their top four defensemen, saying, “The depth of what we had… it’s a grind.” This situation intensifies the need to rely on younger players. Elias Salomonsson has been recalled from the Manitoba Moose. The 21-year-old player had previously participated in four NHL games, showcasing his ability to adapt to the league’s speed.
Players Look to Stay Focused
No matter the circumstances, players like Nino Niederreiter emphasize the necessity of a “one game at a time” mentality. Niederreiter, who has experience with the Wild from 2013 to 2019, stated, “We put ourselves in quite a hole. And you take day by day, game by game.” This mindset will be crucial as they navigate the challenges ahead.
Expected Lineup
- Forward Morgan Barron is expected to return after missing the last three games.
- The remaining lineup will be adjusted based on the injuries and available players.
As the Jets take on the Wild, the stakes are high. Winning this game could significantly impact their chances for the playoffs, making every moment on ice crucial.
