Note: The Jets were scheduled to practice on Friday but instead took the day off although they did announce that they had transferred Dylan Samberg from an emergency recall to a regular recall. Today they are scheduled to practice at 11 AM so stay tuned for the Practice Report.
Note II: The Moose practiced in Rockford on Friday as they prepared for the final road trip of the regular season which begins today against the IceHogs. Puck drop is at 6 PM.
Note III: The Ice kicked off their first round playoff series with the Raiders last night in Winnipeg which saw the home team win 3-1 in game 1. The two teams are back at it tonight for game 2 of their best of 7 series. Puck drop is at 7 PM.
Note IV: Be sure to join us on the Illegal Curve Hockey Show today at 9 AM on our YouTube channel and social media platforms. We will be joined by Ken Wiebe of Sportsnet to talk Jets and Marc Dumont a special contributor for the Canadiens to talk about Guy Lafleur.
Jets news:
The Athletic Winnipeg: How Jets’ leadership evolved this season and what needs to come next. (Paywall). Lots of leadership talk these days and Murat provides his insight into how one of the benefits from this lost season has been the emergence of new voices.
Global News: Stastny showing he’s more than just a strong voice for Jets. Seems clear that he would prefer to play up the middle and perhaps this team will roll 55, 80, 25 and 17 next season. Of course with David Gustafsson waiting in the wings perhaps the Jets use him as the fourth line centre next season.
Photo Credit: Colby Spence (Illegal Curve)
Winnipeg Sun: ‘ONCE IN A LIFETIME’: Guy Lafleur, a kid and a penalty shot in Winnipeg. I feel like for every major event (i.e. Teemu breaking Bossy’s record, etc) folks in Winnipeg say they were inside Winnipeg Arena to witness it but I do have a vague memory of being at this game back in November of 1988 but I can’t be 100% certain. Paul connects the local dots between Winnipeg and the remarkable career of Guy Lafleur who unfortunately passed away yesterday.
Moose news:
Winnipeg Free Press: Moose forward sees AHL playoffs as chance to impress parent club. (Paywall). While Gustafsson has had a tough go this year in the NHL he has continued his excellent play in the AHL with the Moose as he helps lead a team that could push for a Calder Cup this spring.
Ice news:
Winnipeg Free Press: Winnipeg breaks ice with hard-fought victory in post-season opener. (Paywall). Mike recaps the action from his spot inside the Ice Cave.
Winnipeg Free Press: Ice provide pure, passionate, exciting hockey. (Paywall). Mike got his first taste of junior hockey in Winnipeg and talk to some folks as to why they enjoy it.
Winnipeg Sun: Ice show versatility in opening WHL playoffs with win over Raiders. Ted recaps the action in last night’s game.
Global News: Ice win Game 1 of first-round series over Prince Albert, Savoie leaves game with injury. While they got the W it could prove costly with the injury suffered by Matt Savoie.
