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Time: 7:00 PM CDT
Channel: TSN3
Radio: TSN1290
The Winnipeg Jets are taking on the Minnesota Wild in their second pre-season game today. The Jets will probably be dressing their “A” lineup, although that is not clear as of yet. Roster and lines will be added at a later time.
The Jets are currently without Dustin Byfuglien, Kyle Connor, and Patrik Laine. Laine made some waves a couple days ago when he pointed out that he rarely played on the first line amongst other things. Not the greatest thing to say, but also not the end of the world. Now word has emerged that Byfuglien is contemplating his future in the NHL and with the sport overall. The only thing I will say about that is Byfuglien should take all the time he needs to decide what is right for him and his family.
Dustin Byfuglien, currently on personal leave from WPG, is believed to be using the time to ponder his NHL future. I’m not saying Byfuglien is retiring; I’m not saying he’s coming back to play. Only that he’s contemplating his options and there’s no timetable for a decision.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) September 18, 2019
Now for the actual team playing: watch for who can play on Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler’s line as they have had Kyle Connor as the former running mate, but there is no word on how contract negotiations are going there, so no timeline on his return to the team. They need another player on that line and it remains to be seen who solidifies themselves as the third piece there.
On defence, things remain rough. The Jets are missing the departed Jacob Trouba and are at a bit of a loss without Byfuglien. Things really do hinge on what he decides to do and it would be completely fair to move to a reset without him and even with him as the team needs to replenish the stable a bit.