Game 15: Winnipeg Jets vs Anaheim Ducks – Pre-Game Report
The Winnipeg Jets held an optional skate at the Honda Center on Saturday as they prepared to meet the in-form Anaheim Ducks. Winnipeg comes into the matchup after dropping two consecutive games, facing a strong opponent riding momentum.
Anaheim’s Recent Performance
The Ducks are coming off a 4–3 overtime victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Former Jet Jacob Trouba scored the game-winning backhander, giving Anaheim its 10th win and moving them into second place in the Western Conference standings.
Anaheim currently ranks 11th in power play efficiency and 23rd in penalty killing, proving that their success hinges more on five-on-five play than on special teams.
Winnipeg’s Situation
Winnipeg’s special teams have shifted slightly, now sitting 12th on the power play and 4th on the penalty kill. A notable update from reporter Mitchell Clinton revealed that Cole Perfetti participated in line rushes, suggesting he may return to action. Clinton’s report also mentioned that Cole Koepke was not skating, and Eric Comrie will start in goal for his fourth appearance of the season.
Projected Winnipeg Lines and Defensive Pairs
- Connor – Scheifele – Vilardi
- Namestnikov – Toews – Perfetti
- Niederreiter – Lowry – Iafallo
- Pearson – Ford – Chibrikov
- Morrissey – DeMelo
- Stanley – Pionk
- Fleury – Schenn
Projected Anaheim Lines and Defensive Pairs
- Kreider – Carlsson – Terry
- Gauthier – McTavish – Sennecke
- Nesterenko – Poehling – Killorn
- Johnston – Harkins – Vatrano
“Cole Perfetti is taking line rushes,” reported Mitchell Clinton, indicating a possible return to game action.
Author’s summary: Jets look to snap their slump against the surging Ducks, with lineup shifts and Comrie in net highlighting the pre-game story.