WINNIPEG — Starting a playoff series without two 60-plus point scorers presents a significant challenge.
Unfortunately for the Winnipeg Jets, playing without Gabriel Vilardi and Nikolaj Ehlers might be necessary throughout their first-round series against the St. Louis Blues.
Coach Scott Arniel announced on Tuesday that Ehlers is `week-to-week` due to a right-foot injury sustained in Saturday`s game against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Vilardi has been sidelined since March 23rd with an undisclosed upper-body injury against the Buffalo Sabres and has not participated in full team practices since.
At the outset of the 2024-25 playoffs, the Jets are compelled to embrace a next-man-up approach. Competing without two top-six forwards, who are also crucial on the power play, highlights the team`s depth and the coaching staff`s adaptability.
This adaptability has been a point of pride for the Presidents` Trophy winners, who maintained a top position in the league standings throughout the year, despite periods without key players such as Dylan Samberg, Adam Lowry, and Neal Pionk.
Tristan Blackwood