Note: The Jets lost their third straight game last night as they hosted the Flyers in Winnipeg in a game that left a bad taste in the mouth of fans who watched it. Prior to puck drop we also learned that they’d be without defenceman Dylan DeMelo for at least two games. The team are off today and will return to the ice on Monday to conclude their final game before the All-Star break.
Note II: The Moose were at the Zoo meeting fans (and polar bears) but today they look to get back on track against the Marlies in an afternoon game at Canada Life. Almost more important than the game is that it will be an opportunity to celebrate the 60th birthday of Dancing Gabe. Puck drop is at 2 PM CST.
Note III: The first place Ice earned themselves a big 5-1 win over the second place Rebels last night in Red Deer. They conclude their third game in three days tonight in Calgary against the Hitmen. Puck drop is at 5 PM CST.
Jets news:
Sportsnet: Effort level ‘isn’t good enough’ as Jets suffer third loss in a row. Wieber provides you with a frank breakdown of the game.
Winnipeg Sun: Broadly bullied: Philadelphia Flyers shut out Winnipeg Jets. Scott with an assessment of the game.
Winnipeg Free Press: Jets go from bad to worse. (Paywall). Mike gives you his thoughts on last night’s contest.
The Athletic Winnipeg: Jets’ Rick Bowness, after a disastrous night: ‘I’m surprised there weren’t more boos’. (Paywall). The team that was once unbeatable at home have been anything but that of late.
The Athletic: Jets are No. 13 in 2023 NHL prospect pool rankings. (Paywall). I think folks are sleeping on Henri Nikkanen (2019 4th) as he is a bit more of a defensive specialist, but with his big body and responsibility in the D zone, I feel like he is a prospect that I think probably could have made this list.
Jets video:
Sportsnet: Is Bowness’ criticism towards the Jets’ defensive difference makers justified? Sean Reynolds and Ken Wiebe discuss coach Rick Bowness’ criticism towards the defensive difference makers, why Connor Hellebuyck was pulled, and where the Jets stand in the Western Conference.
Sportsnet: How pivotal is Nikolaj Ehlers to the Winnipeg Jets’ success? The Hockey Central panel discuss the Winnipeg Jets’ great season, in particular winger Nikolaj Ehlers’ impact in their success.
Jets audio:
Illegal Curve Hockey Show: Saturday Podcast. On today’s show we discussed the need for Winnipeg to generate more offence. Jets/Flyers Preview. Potential forward line configurations. Working Sam Gagner into the lineup. Moose/Ice/Jets prospects talk. We were also joined by Ken Wiebe of Sportsnet and Anthony SanFilippo of CrossingBroad.