On this version of Winnipeg Jets Information & Rumours, I’ll share why Group USA’s beginning goalie would be the Jets’ Connor Hellebuyck. Nobody expects lower than a powerful efficiency on the 4 Nations Face-Off. Second, I’ll have a look at a promising younger prospect excelling within the WHL. Lastly, I’ll have a look at the Jets’ potential strikes forward of the commerce deadline and what they may wish to add as they push for the playoffs.
Connor Hellebuyck Backstopping Group USA at 4 Nations Face-Off
Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck shall be within the web for Group USA as they face off in opposition to Finland on Thursday within the 4 Nations Face-Off. The Winnipeg Jets’ star goaltender, who leads the NHL with 43 video games, 34 wins, and 6 shutouts, has been a key participant for the Jets. Now, he’s representing his nation.
Hellebuyck’s inclusion because the beginning goaltender is not any shock on condition that he’s the reigning Vezina Trophy winner. Nonetheless, Group USA additionally has Jack Oettinger as a chance, so that they aren’t hurting within the crease. Who will play Group Canada is anybody’s guess proper now.
Jets’ Prospect Brayden Yager Making Progress in WHL
Brayden Yager has put up 21 targets and 39 assists in 38 video games enjoying between the WHL’s Moose Jaw and Lethbridge. For followers who haven’t adopted his growth, he began the season as Moose Jaw’s captain, however was traded midseason to Lethbridge. He additionally represented Canada on the World Junior Championship, contributing three assists in 5 video games. His manufacturing this season follows a robust efficiency final season (95 factors in 57 video games).
As a result of the Jets have had a superb 2024-25 marketing campaign, Yager is probably going nonetheless a 12 months or two away from NHL motion. He’s a part of a pleasant prospect pool that features Brad Lambert and Chaz Lucius. Each these kids are actually creating within the AHL. Once more, for many who don’t know him properly, Yager is a Saskatoon native. He was traded from the Pittsburgh Penguins to the Winnipeg Jets on August 22, 2024, in change for Rutger McGroarty.
Jets Are After Extra Depth on the Commerce Deadline
Heading into the 4 Nations break, Jets head coach Scott Arniel has come to understand his workforce depth. Even with Adam Lowry lacking from motion, the workforce’s depth has saved them sturdy. With solely half a dozen video games left earlier than the commerce deadline, GM Cheveldayoff has solely a bit of extra time to evaluate his workforce’s wants. Will he attempt to chase down further depth?
Arniel emphasised that whereas the Jets are assured with their present roster. Nonetheless, they’re open to creating strikes to additional improve their possibilities of success. Extra depth at each place can’t harm the Jets’ possibilities for a protracted Stanley Cup journey.
Associated: Winnipeg Jets Information & Rumors: Comrie, Niederreiter & Pionk
