Jets drop first test of home-and-home against colorado
The Winnipeg Jets fell 3-2 to the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday evening from downtown Winnipeg.
After picking up a somewhat lopsided win over the Vegas Golden Knights, the Jets bounced back with a loss against the No. 1 club, setting the stage for a very important Saturday evening showdown with the very same Avalanche team in the second test of the home-and-home.
Mark Scheifele got two goals for Winnipeg - his 33rd and 34th of the season, which also set a new career high with 88 points on the year - on the night he surpassed Thomas Steen for most games played in a Jets jersey - 951.
Nathan MacKinnon scored the winner - his second of the game and 48th of the season on a play Jets' head coach Scott Arniel thought was goaltender interference. He didn't get his way with the Coach's Challenge, but his team killed the delay of game minor.
Winnipeg remains five points out of the final playoff spot and sees its chances dwindling by the hour as other clubs between the Jets and the postseason remain deep in the Western Conference playoff race.
Next up is the second half of that home-and-home on Saturday, before the Jets head to Chicago, Dallas and Columbus next week.
HIGHLIGHTS:
PHOTOS:
The extended photo library from Thursday's game vs. Colorado is courtesy of Danny Truong:
QUOTEABLE:
Cole Perfetti on Mark Scheifele:
“I think he's, what, now 32-33 and 951 games in, and I think he's having a career year this year. So it goes to show you his work ethic and his dedication to getting better every day and each year. I think every year he's getting better still, and usually when you get to 33 you kind of start going the other way, and he looks like he's getting better every day and every game. I admire how much he takes care of himself, his body, and his work ethic and practice and doing the little things right. As a young guy that's something that I can learn from. He doesn't get complacent, even though he is having such a great year. He's always looking to get better, and as a young guy I can definitely learn from that.”
Mark Scheifele on passing Thomas Steen for most games played as as Jet:
"Yeah, it's really cool. Honestly, and if you would have told me that when I started my career, don't know if I'd believe you, but I'm obviously very blessed to get to that point. You know, just have to thank God for keeping me healthy. And just want to keep it going."
WHAT’S NEXT:
Winnipeg will now get back on the road for a four-game stretch through Colorado, Chicago, Dallas and Columbus as the Jets continue to cling onto their playoff hopes. Saturday evening will be the second half of the home-and-home with the Avalanche. Puck drop is set for 6:00 PM central.
Comments