WINNIPEG — Throughout the season, Coach Scott Arniel has consistently assessed the team`s performance based on a central question: How does this affect the Winnipeg Jets` playoff ambitions?
It`s understandable if this perspective feels repetitive. However, the recent 3-2 overtime victory against the Washington Capitals provided a significant insight, highlighting the Jets` increased competitiveness compared to previous years.
Nikolaj Ehlers, in particular, embodies this team`s evolution, especially considering his past playoff record.
Ehlers secured the win in overtime with a precise shot for his 24th goal. The crowd at Canada Life Centre reacted with immense excitement as the Jets became the second team to confirm their playoff spot. This goal wasn`t just another highlight for Ehlers; it capped off a game where he played on the team`s shutdown line with Adam Lowry and Mason Appleton.
“I decided to use Lowry and Appleton against players like Tom Wilson and Pierre-Luc Dubois, who are physically imposing,” Arniel explained. “I felt Ehlers could match up against Tom Wilson, using his speed to challenge him and force them to defend in their zone, which our line effectively did.”
Besides scoring the decisive goal, Ehlers contributed seven scoring opportunities and two hits in a tightly contested game. Historically, a critique of Ehlers has been his reduced impact in playoffs, with only 14 points in 37 postseason games (0.38 points per game), notably less than his regular-season average of 0.78 points per game.
Ehlers has often found it challenging to perform at his best when the stakes are higher and the game becomes more physical.
However, Tuesday`s game was different. Ehlers was arguably Winnipeg`s most effective forward in what was their most intense physical game of the season.
“He adapts to his linemates,” Arniel noted. “When playing with highly skilled players, his approach might differ. With players like Appleton and Lowry, who focus on retrieving pucks and creating space, Ehlers provides crucial support. He understands how to find open ice.”
Despite not frequently playing with shutdown specialists, except for a brief period with Lowry and Alex Iafallo in January, Ehlers seems willing and possibly eager to continue in this role.
“I aim to utilize my speed every time I’m on the ice,” Ehlers stated. “We are developing our synergy. Today was decent; we had strong moments, though I might have given the puck away too often at times. Playing with these guys who can play deep, retain possession, and open up space for me is beneficial. I enjoy playing with them, and we need to keep improving. We don`t know how long we’ll play together, but our progress is encouraging.”
Stoller’s Insights:
A notable quote from Appleton on defending against Alex Ovechkin, who scored late in the third period to tie the game: “Being on him is almost not enough. You need to be right on him, practically touching him, because his shot is so dangerous. You can’t just position in front of him because he can shoot through or around you. He’s an exceptional scorer; any space is enough for him to score.”
Cole Perfetti’s consistent strong performance is also worth mentioning. His playmaking on the boards is remarkable, even considering his skating and size. It was impressive to see him withstand physical pressure from Matt Roy and retaliate against a larger opponent.
“He was very involved with the puck and held onto it well,” Arniel said. “He drove to the net from the corners a few times. These are positive developments in his evolution as a player, essential for playoff hockey.”
Tristan Blackwood