The Jets skipped practice on Tuesday in Winnipeg instead heading to Vegas without skating.
Skate news:
According to radio colour broadcaster Mitchell Clinton no changes to the lines and D pairs today at T-Mobile Arena although what is more noteworthy is that four players (Kupari, Ehlers, Namestnikov and Perfetti) are wearing neck protection after the incident in England where Adam Johnson tragically lost his life.
Lines and D pairs:
Connor-Scheifele-Iafallo
Perfetti-Namestnikov-Ehlers
Niederreiter-Toninato-Appleton
Barron-Kupari-Gustafsson
Morrissey-DeMelo
Dillon-Pionk
Samberg-Schmidt
Chisholm-Stanley
Hellebuyck & Brossoit
Media availability:
Following skate Mitch asked Vlad Namestnikov and Cole Perfetti about their decisions to wear neck protection today at skate. He also asked associate coach Scott Arniel about players choosing to try it out today.
Namestnikov:
“You always wear it growing up and then when you get to the pro level it’s kinda not required. Guys decided to try it out today and I think it’s a good thing. Keep trying it and hopefully get used to it and wear it.”
“You don’t really notice it. The only thing is it’s a bit hot, a little suffocating in there but you can get used to it for sure.”
Perfetti:
“….I think a couple of guys tried it out today, wanted to see what it felt like. I think haven’t used one in a bit but that (Adam Johnson tragedy) sparked the interest in trying one. Super sad. Terrible thing that happened. Try to prevent it.”
“It definitely felt warm, it felt weird having something coming up here (gestures to his neck). Usually it’s so loose there, so free. Definitely hotter, definitely an awkward feeling. I think something you just have to get used to. Don’t know if it looks the best but at the end of the day just trying to be safe. So that’s the end goal.”
Associate coach Scott Arniel:
“There are some new things that are out on the market too and our trainers are trying to find some different looks for these guys. Some guys wanted to get into them today and just see what they feel like. I’m sure maybe a few more guys are looking to do it too. Obviously nothing mandatory right now from the league but there are some guys certainly concerned about it, you just got to feel for it.”
Up next:
Jets take on the Golden Knights tomorrow night in Vegas to kick off three straight games on the road. Puck drop between Winnipeg and St. Louis will be at 9 PM CDT. Don’t forget to join us after the game on the Illegal Curve Post-Game Show.
