3rd: Winnipeg Jets – Artem Zub
The Zub Crew is heading to Winnipeg. Zub was one of Ottawa’s top defenders this season with his 49.27 5v5 xGF% ranking third on the blueline, behind only Victor Mete, who played only 14 games for the Sens, and Mike Reilly, who is ineligible for this draft on accounts of his already being on the Boston Bruins.
While Winnipeg upset the Oilers last night, allowing only one goal in the process, they could still use the help on defense. Game 1 saw them dress Derek Forbort, Richard Farda, Logan Stanley, and Tucker Poolman on the backend. How obscure is that group? Let’s just say Richard Farda actually last 75 years old and last played for the 1976-77 Birmingham Bulls and there’s only about a 50/50 chance you noticed.
If Winnipeg wants to upset the Oilers and move onto the second round, they’ll likely have to upgrade their defense.