Winnipeg Jets at Anaheim Ducks
On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe provide updates from the morning skate, including lineup notes and injury news, shared a few hours before puck drop.
The Winnipeg Jets used Saturday for assessment and conversation, while head coach Scott Arniel is determined that Sunday’s game in Anaheim brings results. Following a tough 2-1 defeat to the San Jose Sharks on Friday — the team’s second straight loss to start a six-game road trip — Arniel met individually with all available players to set expectations ahead of the clash with the Ducks.
“To be straight up, I had one-on-ones with players,” Arniel said at the Honda Center. “Because we have a large number of new guys and we’re teaching them as we go, I never really got a chance since training camp to say, ‘OK, this is now what I expect of you.’ And to review with our players that have been here last year, touching on the things I expect from them every night.”
“Each guy knows their role, what I expect and what the coaches expect of them. So let’s go out and do it as a whole.”
During Friday’s game in San Jose, Alex Nedeljkovic made a key save in the second period to keep the Sharks ahead. On Sunday morning, there was a notable update for the Jets: forward Cole Perfetti, recovering from an ankle injury, is cleared to make his season debut after missing the first 14 games.
Author’s Summary
Scott Arniel challenged the Winnipeg Jets to turn preparation into performance as Cole Perfetti rejoins the lineup for their matchup against Anaheim.