After the Jet's most recent time off, they beat the Columbus Blue Jackets at home, before flying to Chicago and losing to the Blackhawks the day after. Now, after a few more days off of recuperation and practice, the Jets return to the MTS Centre and take on the tough St. Louis Blues. The Blues are coming off a disappointing loss against the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday night, and find themselves tied with Chicago in the standings. If the Jets want to make up some ground in the standings, here is the prime opportunity to do so.
Keys to the game: Winnipeg Jets:
One paragraph is not a lot of space, and yet I could fill this post with several of them listing what the Jets need to do to be successful. Discipline will be tough against the Blues, as they are of the same mold as the Jets…big, strong and fast. Both teams are filled with talented players who can turn a game with a quick shot or a smart play. However, the team was successful against the Blue Jackets by sticking to their game. Rely on the basics, watch the stick work, keep the feed moving and stay with what works.
Keys to the game: St. Louis Blues:
The Blues have essentially been a one trick pony this year, as Vladimir Tarasenko has done the bulk of the scoring, as he currently has 18 goals. In order to beat the Jets, the Blues need to have scoring from other players. Also, the Blues rely on their penalty killing to prop up their undisciplined play. This has to remain perfectly intact, as the Jets are prime to break out of their own power play scoring drought.
Player to Boo Mercilessly:
Jake Allen has been the goalie of choice for the Blues as of late. Let's give him a warm Winnipeg welcome, shall we?
Prediction:
Jets 5-4, with Scheifele, Perreault, Ladd and Wheeler scoring. Little will score in OT.
