Game 15: Winnipeg Jets vs Anaheim Ducks Pre-Game Report
The Winnipeg Jets held an optional practice at the Honda Center on Saturday as they prepared to face the red-hot Anaheim Ducks. Winnipeg enters the game after losing two consecutive matches, facing a challenging opponent.
The Ducks recently played in Vegas, defeating the Knights 4-3 in overtime with a backhand shot from former Jet Jacob Trouba. This victory marked Anaheim's 10th win, moving them into 2nd place in the Western Conference.
Special Teams Overview
- Anaheim holds the 11th-ranked power play and 23rd-ranked penalty kill, showing they rely less on special teams to secure wins.
- Winnipeg ranks 12th in power play and 4th in penalty kill.
Lineup Notes
Mitchell Clinton reports that Cole Perfetti is taking line rushes for Winnipeg, suggesting Cole Koepke is not skating.
Eric Comrie is set to start in goal for his fourth game this season.
Jets Projected Lines & Defensive Pairs
- Forwards:
- Connor – Scheifele – Vilardi
- Namestnikov – Toews – Perfetti
- Niederreiter – Lowry – Iafallo
- Pearson – Ford – Chibrikov
- Defense:
- Morrissey – DeMelo
- Stanley – Pionk
- Fleury – Schenn
Ducks Projected Lines & Defensive Pairs
- Forwards:
- Kreider – Carlsson – Terry
- Gauthier – McTavish – Sennecke
- Nesterenko – Poehling – Killorn
- Defense:
- Johnston – Harkins – Vatrano
"Anaheim's 10th win puts them into 2nd spot in the Western Conference."
Author's summary: The Winnipeg Jets prepare to challenge the surging Anaheim Ducks, who have secured a strong conference position despite middling special teams stats, with key lineup changes hinting at strategic adjustments.