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The Winnipeg Jets continued their red-hot start to the NHL season, securing a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against the Minnesota Wild on Sunday. Kyle Connor’s power-play goal just 51 seconds into overtime extended the Jets’ perfect record to 3-0-0, marking the first time in franchise history that Winnipeg has won its first three games of a season.
Connor’s goal came after former Jets defenseman Zach Bogosian was penalized for holding Mark Scheifele’s stick in the final seconds of regulation, giving the Jets a man advantage heading into the extra period. Winnipeg capitalized quickly, with Connor finding the back of the net for a dramatic finish.
Scheifele Shines in Milestone Game
Mark Scheifele, who celebrated his 800th NHL game, had a standout performance with a goal and an assist. He tied the game at 1-1 with just 1.5 seconds left in the first period, scoring his 301st career goal. Scheifele has been a key contributor to Winnipeg’s early success, with four goals and two assists in the first three games.
Wild Strike First, But Jets Respond
Minnesota opened the scoring early in the first period when Jake Middleton’s wrist shot found its way past Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck at 4:06. However, the Wild couldn’t hold off the Jets, who tied the game just before the first intermission. Hellebuyck, who made 26 saves, held firm for the remainder of the game, while Minnesota’s Filip Gustavsson faced 33 shots, stopping all but two.
Jets’ Special Teams Stand Tall
Winnipeg’s penalty kill has been flawless so far this season, going 5-for-5 through three games, a marked improvement from last year when they ranked 22nd in the league. Their disciplined play, combined with effective special teams, has been a key factor in their strong start.
Wild Battle Injuries, Face Tough Loss
The Wild entered the game facing adversity, playing without top center Joel Eriksson Ek and captain Jared Spurgeon, both sidelined due to injuries sustained in their previous game. Despite the challenges, Minnesota pushed Winnipeg to the limit, following a shootout loss to the Seattle Kraken the night before.
Key Moment
With just 2.9 seconds left in the first period, Jets coach Rick Bowness made a bold move, pulling Hellebuyck for an extra attacker. The decision paid off as Adam Lowry won a crucial faceoff, and Scheifele fired a quick shot past Gustavsson to level the score.
Up Next
- Minnesota Wild: The Wild travel to face the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday.
- Winnipeg Jets: The Jets will look to keep their momentum going as they host the San Jose Sharks on Friday.
Key Stats
- The Jets have allowed only two goals in their first three games.
- Mark Scheifele extends his point streak to three games with four goals and two assists.
Takeaways
- Jets: Winnipeg’s focus on improving their special teams has paid off early in the season, with their penalty kill standing out as a critical element in their undefeated start.
- Wild: Injuries to key players have tested Minnesota’s depth, but the team remains competitive despite back-to-back tough losses.
Stay tuned for more updates on Winnipeg’s unbeaten streak and other NHL action.
Source: The Canadian Press
