Winnipeg Jets Morning Papers (Thursday, Feb 23rd)

Note:  As per usual we will be at the MTS Centre covering the morning skate for both the Jets and Lightning and will have post-practice audio from both teams as well as coach Noel.  For all the latest, be sure to follow us on twitter @illegalcurve.

Jets news:

Winnipeg Free Press:  Jets looking for redemption after Tuesday’s collapse.  While there is nothing that can be done about the loss, and the point the Jets gave away, it is important to be aware of what happened and try to prevent same from happening in the future.

Winnipeg Free Press:  Burmistrov learned on fly; now on cusp of NHL stardom.  Many forget how difficult it is to come to a completely foreign land, where the only common bond is a love for the game of hockey.  The language barrier many of these foreign players must overcome is massive and it can take years for these guys to develop a certain level of comfort, both within the actual game and out in the real world.

Winnipeg Free Press:  Pavelec’s actual worth far outstrips his numbers.  While most who have watched him night in and out would agree with the article’s headline, the question many Jets fans are wondering is what might an actual contact might look like for the 24 year old netminder?  We will be examining that question as IC’s hockey analyst Richard Pollock breaks down the numbers, similar to his article establishing Evander Kane’s market value.

Winnipeg Sun:  Wheeler,Stuart prove their worth.  The two Minnesotans have become an absolutely pivotal part of this Jets team.  While some of the contracts Dudley signed were not the best, this was one trade that should be celebrated.

Winnipeg Sun:  Preparing for the Lightning.  Fair to say this will be one of (if not) the biggest game of the year for both teams.  This could be the game that determines if the Jets are buyers, sellers or stand pat for Monday’s trade deadline!  Both teams are going to be pumped up and it should be quite the battle for the W.

Winnipeg Sun:  Jets get middling grades.  Looks like Ken is giving the Jets a C grade overall for their play to this point in the season.  What do you think?  Does the team deserve better?  Worse.  Sound off and let us know how you rate the Jets season so far.

Metro:  Jets should get Buff in blue paint.  Coach Noel discussed this possibility and while he said it is something he has considered, it probably is not a luxury he can afford while Bogosian remains sidelined.  Good news for the Jets is their PP has picked up of late with Buff still back on the point, having gone 5/5 (last 2/2 chances in Colorado and 3/3 against Philadelphia).

Winnipeg Free Press:  Brewing some Jets pride.  Nice move by Budweiser to slap a Jetson some Manitoba water and turn it into beer.  Will it even take a few weeks to sell?

Next opponent news – Tampa Bay Lightning:

Tampa Bay Times:  Bolts owners say they believe in GM Yzerman’s long term vision. This should sound familiar to Winnipeg fans.  A GM who has to worry about having long term vision, which goes against the ‘win now’ mentality of pretty much everyone else.

Tampa Bay Times:  Lecavalier could be back in as little as three weeks.  Good news for TBay but is it too little too late?  While the team is riding a wave of success, will this be sustainable while they are missing their captain for the next month?