Winnipeg Jets 2014-15 Season Preview
Apr 10, 2014; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets forward Evander Kane (9) celebrates his goal on Boston Bruins goalie Chad Johnson (30) (not shown) during the third period at MTS Centre. Winnipeg wins 2-1 overtime. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports
WINNIPEG JETS
2013-14 RECAP
The Jets did what they have always done, even dating back to their Atlanta Thrashers days – just kind of “be there”. The fan base has been pretty patient with the club since it relocated, but another playoff miss will create a bit of uneasiness
Mar 29, 2014; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Anaheim Ducks forward Mathieu Perreault (22) skates against the Vancouver Canucks during the second period at Rogers Arena. The Anaheim Ducks won 5-1. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports
CHANGES
IN – Mathieu Perreault, T.J. Galiardi
OUT- Olli Jokinen, Devin Setoguchi, Eric Tangradi, James Wright
Improvement is expected to come from within, with the maturation of the likes of Mark Scheifele, Jacob Trouba and Evander Kane as the Jets didn’t make any real impactful moves.
Oct 4, 2014; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets goalie Ondrej Pavelec (31) makes a save during the third period against the Calgary Flames at MTS Centre. Winnipeg wins 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports
3 BIG QUESTIONS
1. Paul Maurice Magic? – After taking over partway through last season, Paul Maurice took control of the team and finally gave them some direction. Is a full season of Maurice enough to direct them to the playoffs?
2. Legit Pavelec? – Ondrej Pavelec has had an up and down career and hasn’t shown the consistency of a true starter in this league. The Jets have their hopes pinned on him, so the pressure is on.
3. Where’s the Byf? – Dustin Byfuglien has taken a lot of criticism for not only his weight, but his lackluster play in his own zone. To that end, the plan is to play him up front this season, something he was not too keen on doing.
Apr 5, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Winnipeg Jets defenseman Tobias Enstrom (39) celebrates his goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs with Winnipeg Jets defenseman Jacob Trouba (8) during the second period at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
PREDICTION
The Jets missed the playoffs by 7 points, and were the top ranked Canadian team in the West. However, the Canadian clubs were the 4 worst teams in the conference so that doesn’t say too much. With the balance of power firmly in their conference, the Jets have a steep hill to climb
6th CENTRAL DIVISION