WINNIPEG — The Winnipeg Jets often say their ideal game is a 2-1 victory.
They achieved just that on Monday, putting on a masterclass display that perfectly embodied `Winnipeg Jets hockey.` This performance propelled them to a 2-0 lead in their first-round series against the St. Louis Blues.
‘Winnipeg Jets’ hockey is defined by four key principles, prominently displayed in their locker room:
Structure
Embracing tough areas
Winning 50/50 battles
Giving 10 per cent extra effort
In Game 2, they excelled in every one of these aspects.
Defensively, the Jets effectively shut down the high-danger scoring areas, allowing St. Louis only one high-danger shot and three attempts during five-on-five play. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck`s 21 saves were made easier by his teammates` excellent work in eliminating rebound opportunities.
“We didn`t give them much space and were patient, forcing them to play through us,” said Cole Perfetti. “We controlled the middle of the ice, which can be very frustrating for opponents. We kept them to the outside, and when they did get a chance, Bucky made crucial saves. It was a superb defensive effort.”
Tristan Blackwood