When the Winnipeg Jets take on the Edmonton Oilers at this year’s Heritage Classic, they’ll be doing so in style. Today’s announcement featured the unveiling of both teams’ respective jerseys, and while the Oilers will don their current alternate jersey, Winnipeg has something snazzier in store:
The official @NHLJets uniforms for the NHL #HeritageClassic. A proper throwback indeed. pic.twitter.com/6WGD26RoTk
— NHL (@NHL) August 5, 2016
As per Jets.NHL.com, “The Jets’ uniform draws inspiration from the championship era of the late 1970s and features a crossover V-neck color and vintage-inspired mesh striping. The crest employs traditional chain stitching to lend a distinct authenticity to the throwback uniform. A pant logo highlights the historical Jets ID set, complete with an era-accurate name and number set.”
The jersey is simple, striking and features its very own Mark Scheifele photo shoot. What more could Jets fans ask for? Eagle-eyed readers may also notice the number “6” on the captain’s jersey above. While the easy answer is it’s an Andrew Ladd holdover, this will do nothing to alleviate the rampant Blake Wheeler speculation (either that, or does Marko Dano have a surprise for you).
Meanwhile, Oilers fans get to enjoy the excitement of an already debuted jersey. As Ryan Batty over at Copper and Blue said, “this is a bit of a let down as far as I’m concerned.”
The @EdmontonOilers will return to their roots and rock these sweaters for the NHL #HeritageClassic. pic.twitter.com/oE3GKgDvPA
— NHL (@NHL) August 5, 2016
Rosters for the alumni game taking place a day prior on Oct. 22 were also announced. While Heritage Classics may not have quite the same glitz and glamour of the NHL Winter Classic, the likes of Dale Hawerchuk, Teemu Selanne and Wayne Gretzky bring prestige in spades.
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Winnipeg Jets Alumni Roster G Bob Essensa D Dave Babych D Dave Ellett D Mike Ford D Jim Kyte D Mario Marois D Moe Mantha D Teppo Numminen D Tim Watters F Dale Hawerchuk F Thomas Steen F Teemu Selanne F Laurie Boschman F Mike Eagles F Kris King F Morris Lukowich F Andrew McBain F Brian Mullen F Darrin Shannon F Doug Smail F Ron Wilson Coaches Tom McVie Serge Savard |
Edmonton Oilers Alumni Roster G Grant Fuhr G Bill Ranford D Kevin Lowe D Paul Coffey D Charlie Huddy D Craig Muni D Steve Smith F Wayne Gretzky F Dave Semenko F Mark Messier F Glenn Anderson F Jari Kurri F Kelly Buchberger F Ken Linseman F Craig MacTavish F Craig Simpson F Ryan Smyth Coaches Ron Low Glen Sather |
And if folks were worried this would be a dull affair, fear not. The production of billboard material has already begun:
@EdmontonOilers decent line up you got there. See you in a few months! #HeritageClassic pic.twitter.com/8XcDL0AUbK
— Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) August 5, 2016
Okay, maybe it needs a little work.
What do you think of the day’s announcements? The Winnipeg Jets Heritage Classic uniform: Great jersey, or the greatest jersey? Who among the alumni rosters are you most excited to see lace up the skates once more, and who are you surprised wasn’t named? Share your thoughts, questions and concerns in the comments section below, and as always, thanks for reading!
