Game 15: Winnipeg Jets vs Anaheim Ducks Pre-Game Report
Overview
The Winnipeg Jets held an optional skate at the Honda Center on Saturday as they prepared to meet the in-form Anaheim Ducks. Coming into the game with two consecutive losses, Winnipeg faces a challenging opponent.
Anaheim’s Momentum
Anaheim arrived from Las Vegas, where they edged the Golden Knights 4–3 in overtime. Former Jet Jacob Trouba sealed the win with a backhand shot, marking the Ducks’ 10th victory of the season and propelling them to second place in the Western Conference standings.
Special Teams Comparison
- Anaheim: 11th-ranked power play, 23rd in penalty kill.
- Winnipeg: 12th in power play, 4th in penalty kill.
These stats indicate Anaheim’s success comes largely from even-strength play rather than special teams.
Team Updates
Reporter Mitchell Clinton noted that Cole Perfetti joined the main group for line rushes, suggesting a possible move back into the lineup. Meanwhile, Cole Koepke did not skate. Eric Comrie is expected to start in goal for Winnipeg, marking his fourth appearance this season.
Projected Jets Lines & Pairs
- Connor – Scheifele – Vilardi
- Namestnikov – Toews – Perfetti
- Niederreiter – Lowry – Iafallo
- Pearson – Ford – Chibrikov
- Morrissey – DeMelo
- Stanley – Pionk
- Fleury – Schenn
Projected Ducks Lines & Pairs
- Kreider – Carlsson – Terry
- Gauthier – McTavish – Sennecke
- Nesterenko – Poehling – Killorn
- Johnston – Harkins – Vatrano
Jacob Trouba’s overtime goal in Vegas highlighted Anaheim’s current surge and confidence going into this matchup.
Author’s summary: Winnipeg looks to bounce back after two losses against a confident Anaheim team riding strong form and balanced play.