This weekend marches another week closer to the start of the NHL season and marks an important time in a few teams' off-season: the B.C. Young Stars tournament. Youngsters from the Canucks, Flames, Oilers and Jets all make their way to Penticton, battling for roster spots on their respective teams. The Jets have several of these cut line guys, some with clearer paths to the team than others.
Goalie Dom Divincentiis may have the most interesting path to a roster spot out of the fringe players. With uncertainty surrounding starter Connor Hellebuyck, and an average backup in Laurent Brossoit, an 18-year-old gathering experience behind these two veterans could be crucial down the line. With Divincentiis proving himself as one of the best goalies in the Ontario Hockey League last season, there’s an outside shot he finds himself wearing a Jets jersey in the near future.
Declan Chisholm just inked a one-year extension to stay with the franchise, the contract being set as a two-way deal. But with his waiver exemption gone, another suitor will likely snatch him up if he is sent back to the minors this season. With a deep defensive line, especially on the left side, the lineup will be difficult for Chisholm to crack.
Chaz Lucius is a name on the back burner for some fans, but the former first-round pick is looking to establish a spot for himself on the team. Lucius won bronze with the U.S. at the 2023 World Juniors early this year before suffering a shoulder injury that required surgery. Lucius suffered a major injury in the third consecutive season, casting doubts on the player's durability. On the flip side, the 20-year-old has faced major adversity at a young age and has the potential to come back stronger and more mature as a slightly older version.
Training camp as a whole will be vital for a Winnipeg Jets team seeking new blood, and the young stars tournament is a big step in discovering who will take the reins.
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