Facing uncertainty, the Winnipeg Jets look to transition quickly as they enter the 2023-24 season with questions still in tow.
2022-23
Record: 46-33-3 (95 pts) – 4th in Central (Wild Card 2)
Playoffs: Lost to Vegas in First Round
Key Losses
Pierre-Luc Dubois (F – LA), Blake Wheeler (F – NYR), David Rittich (G – LA)
Key Additions
Gabriel Vilardi (F), Alex Iafallo (F), Rasmus Kupari (F), Laurent Brossoit (G)
2023-24 Preview
The 2022-23 season proved to be a mixed bag for the Winnipeg Jets. They finished the regular season with a record of 46-33-3, earning a total of 95 points. This placed them 4th in the Central Division and secured them the Wild Card 2 spot. Despite making it to the playoffs, their journey was cut short as they lost to the Vegas Golden Knights in the First Round.
Quick Transition
After buying out Blake Wheeler, and trading Pierre-Luc Dubois, the Jets need to hope that they can get scoring from more than just Kyle Connor. The additions of Alex Iafallo and Gabe Vilardi will add some support, and with Mark Scheifele looking to re-establish himself, the Jets can be hopeful. Also, a healthy Nikolaj Ehlers is something the Jets are looking forward to as well.
On defense the Jets made no changes, and same in goal, as Connor Hellebuyck remains the number one guy between the pipes. However, the Jets did regain Laurent Brossoit, who just won the Stanley Cup with Vegas, and Colin Delia to add depth in net.
Questions Needing Answers
The biggest question ailing the Jets right now is about the futures of Scheifele and Hellebuyck. After departing with longtime Jets player Wheeler, the Jets made it known that they are looking to the future as well as the present.
With the Jets possibly needing to do a more proper retool or rebuild in the near future, one has to ask how long Hellebuyck, who was subject to trade rumors over the summer, could possibly remain with the Jets.
Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, the Jets will aim to build upon their previous year’s performance. The team will rely on key players like Kyle Connor and Connor Hellebuyck to lead the way. The roster changes and the development of young talent will likely influence their prospects for the upcoming season.
Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS, NJ, NYI, NYR, OTT, PHI, PIT, SJ, SEA, STL, TB, TOR, VAN, VGK, WAS
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