Centreman Mark Scheifele, who plays alongside sniper Kyle Connor and regular point producers Gabe Vilardi and Nikolaj Ehlers, continues to maintain a consistent point-per-game production rate and is expected to finish higher than last year’s 68 points in fewer games played due to his current lower-body injury.
Kyle Connor started well and quickly took the NHL-wide goal scoring lead with fellow countryman Auston Matthews. However, a severe MCL sprain forced him out of Winnipeg’s lineup for 16 games. Despite missing time, he maintained his team’s goal advantage.
HART: Connor Hellebuyck.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has become the Winnipeg Jets’ Hart and Soul in 2023-24. Ranked third in victories, the veteran goalkeeper has risen to first in goals against average and save % among netminders who have played 30 or more games. He was the primary reason Winnipeg went 34 consecutive games without conceding more than three goals.
Josh Morrissey takes a firm and consistent approach to the game. His offensive numbers lead the team, his minutes are second to none, and his overall defensive support is among the best in the league. The club’s top blueliner is also the one head coach Rick Bowness calls on when he needs a spark.
VEZINA:Connor Hellebuyck
Winnipeg’s goaltending has been the league’s best thus far. Connor Hellebuyck and Laurent Brossoit’s collaborative efforts have not gone unnoticed, as visiting teams frequently regard to the Jets as the “best defensive team”. Hellebuyck has a 2.20 goals against average and a.924 save percentage, which is slightly worse than Brossoit’s 2.07 goals against average and.926 save percentage. But he did so with a greater sample size. Currently, the league’s Vezina Trophy is his to lose.
Much has been made of centreman Mark Scheifele’s defensive efforts over the past few seasons. With Rick Bowness’ arrival, the team’s top middle-man began to pay more attention to defensive detail. Scheifele’s offence remains an important part of Winnipeg’s assault, and he is improving his play in his own zone, which his teammates have noticed.
