WINNIPEG – Those who doubted the Jets or expected a familiar collapse can stand down for now.
Even with the series knotted at two games apiece, the Winnipeg Jets entered Game 5 under pressure, having delivered lackluster performances in St. Louis.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck`s performance had been inconsistent. The power play, usually a strength, had faltered. Contributions from depth scorers were absent.
However, this season`s Jets team has shown a different character compared to previous years. Their 5-3 victory against the Blues on Wednesday perfectly illustrated this newfound resilience.
They faced a significant challenge and could have easily capitulated when key player Mark Scheifele left the game after the first period.
Tristan Blackwood