GM #15: Winnipeg Jets @ Anaheim Ducks
The Winnipeg Jets have faced difficulties on their west coast road trip, losing their first two games against the LA Kings and San Jose Sharks while managing to score just once. As a consequence, their record has fallen to 9-5-0 at the start of the 2025–26 NHL season.
Head coach Scott Arniel’s lineup has been hampered by injuries, disrupting early-season plans. The team’s play has not matched the level seen during their President’s Trophy-winning campaign. While their current record of 18 points isn’t disastrous compared to last year’s 26 points at the same mark, the numbers under the surface paint a less optimistic picture.
Performance Analysis
Looking deeper into 5-on-5 play, a crucial metric for predicting playoff performance, several concerning trends emerge. Scoring efficiency, puck possession, and transition play have all taken noticeable steps back.
“Before I break down what I feel is significant, here is what I came up with for a comparison of the Jets’ last two seasons.”
Goals For Comparison
- Overall ranking has dropped by six spots.
- Projected 5-on-5 goals decreased slightly from 170 last season to 164 this season.
- Goals For per Game remains nearly identical year over year.
Despite comparable offensive production, the Jets’ even-strength performance metrics highlight the gap between last season’s dominance and their current inconsistency, suggesting a critical area for improvement moving forward.
Author’s summary: The Jets’ strong start has been undermined by injuries and weaker 5-on-5 play, calling for adjustments if they hope to recover their President’s Trophy form.