Preview: Winnipeg Jets vs Tampa Bay Lightning

Time: 3:00 PM CST

Channel: TSN3

Radio: TSN1290

First things first: the Winnipeg Jets are currently third in the Central Division and have moved out of a Wild Card spot.

The Jets are going to be in tough in their game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Lightning just beat the New York Rangers 7-1 and seemed to have hit their stride after a slow start in their terms to this season. They are a four line team with a very good goalie. They are strong and sometimes unstoppable. And yet they are beatable and if the Jets play well and Connor Hellebuyck has a good game.

The Jets have been holding it together without Bryan Little. This will be their toughest test without him, but if Blake Wheeler can play his match-up to even the Jets should be in a good place to win. Mark Scheifele can match up against Tampa’s top line as good as anyone.

The other key factor is Connor Hellebuyck. Hellebuyck has been excellent this season and he will have to be as good as ever tonight. The Jets are short-handed upfront and their defence is an interesting group. Hellebuyck has been the steady hand for the Jets and will need to remain one this game.

Prediction

Patrik Laine scores a goal and does Teemu Selanne’s gun celebration.