The Winnipeg Jets secured a team-record ninth consecutive victory on Saturday night, defeating the St. Louis Blues 4-3 in a thrilling shootout. Gabriel Vilardi played a pivotal role, scoring the game-tying goal with just 28 seconds left in regulation while the Jets were without their goalie, Eric Comrie, who had been pulled for an extra attacker.
Vilardi also found the net in the first period, while Nikolaj Ehlers added another goal to help push the Jets toward victory. Comrie made 21 saves in the win, keeping the Blues at bay despite their aggressive offense. This victory surpasses Winnipeg’s previous eight-game win streaks, the last of which occurred earlier this season from October 9-26.
The Blues’ Robert Thomas shined with two goals, and Pavel Buchnevich added one more, while goalie Joel Hofer recorded 26 saves. Despite the strong efforts, St. Louis has struggled recently, winning only two of their last nine games.
Key Moments and Takeaways
In a pivotal sequence late in the game, Jets defenseman Neal Pionk was assessed two penalties for holding with 4:28 left. During the ensuing power play, Buchnevich capitalized, netting his 12th goal of the season to give St. Louis a 3-2 lead with just under three minutes remaining. However, Vilardi responded with his second goal of the game, sending it to a 3-3 tie and forcing overtime.
The game was ultimately decided in a shootout, with Kyle Connor securing the victory for Winnipeg. Despite missing key players like star goalie Connor Hellebuyck and defenseman Josh Morrissey, who stayed behind after the 4 Nations Face-Off, the Jets continued their dominant run.
Key Stats:
- Winnipeg’s record against Central Division teams is an impressive 15-5-0.
- Vilardi’s game-tying goal brought his season total to 26, continuing his strong performance.
Up Next:
The Jets will host the San Jose Sharks on Monday night as they look to extend their win streak. Meanwhile, the Blues will face off against the Colorado Avalanche at home on Sunday, aiming to turn around their recent struggles.
With this victory, the Jets remain firmly in the hunt for a top playoff spot, showing resilience even in the absence of some of their key players.
Source: AP
