Note: The Jets were off on Saturday after a successful conclusion to their road trip which saw them win two of three away from Manitoba (and seven of their last eight overall). They are back in Winnipeg for the game today against the Coyotes and then head back out on the road for five games. With it being a gameday all eyes will be on morning skate which gets underway at 9:30 AM CST. All the relevant news will be posted in the pre-game report so check back for that. Puck drop is at 6:00 PM CST.
Note II: This evening, after the final buzzer sounds between Winnipeg and Arizona, we want you to be part of the conversation on the Illegal Curve Post-Game Show as we discuss and analyze the results of the game. This season you’ll have a chance to win great schwag including authentic Jets jerseys, hats, etc after every single game and now a grand prize of a pair of tickets to an NHL game of your choice (For a variety of ways to enter click here).
Note III: The Moose were in action last night in Belleville which concluded their six-game road trip with a 4-2 win over the Senators. It all started with Dominic Toninato scoring his third goal in five games, followed by Jeff Malott getting his team leading 16th of the season and then Tyler Boland would score what proved to be the game-winner. Last one was this whoopsy by Ville Heinola which was his first of the season. They return to Winnipeg today where they will kick off six straight at home starting with the Wolves on Tuesday.
Note IV: The Ice concluded five straight at home last night against the Tigers which saw Winnipeg defeat Medicine Hat by a final score of 8-3. They improve to 30-5-1. They are next in action on Wednesday night when they take on the Raiders in Prince Albert.
Note V: Nice one-timer by Jets 2022 1st rounder Rutger McGroarty to pad the Michigan lead on the power play. It was his ninth goal of the season. It’s his second game back since he helped Team USA win bronze at the World Juniors.
Jets news:
Winnipeg Sun: Jets’ Dylan DeMelo finding offensive stroke under Rick Bowness. He wanted offense from the backend and that is just what he is getting this season. DeMelo could end up with new career highs in goals, assists, points while also continuing to play effectively in the D zone.
Photo Credit: Colby Spence (Illegal Curve)
Winnipeg Free Press: D-man DeMelo among Jets playing better than ever under new coach. (Paywall). In the game in Pittsburgh he matched his assist total from last year which he achieved in 76 games but this time around hit that mark in 37 fewer games.
The Hockey News: NHL mid season grades (Central Division). It is like folks hate to admit they made an error about the Jets so they cast doubt as to what they are seeing. It has been 43 games. This isn’t an illusion.
Jets video/audio:
Illegal Curve Hockey: Saturday Show. On the show yesterday we discussed: Jets win in Pittsburgh to conclude road trip. GM Kevin Cheveldayoff and whether the Jets will “go for it” this season. What is the biggest need for Winnipeg to trade for? Jets home for one vs Coyotes. Looking ahead at “soft” schedule for Winnipeg in February and opportunity it presents. How open the Western Conference is. Goaltending depth in Winnipeg.
