Jets Aim to Rebound Against Sharks in San Jose
Tonight, the Winnipeg Jets are looking to get their road trip back on track as they face the San Jose Sharks at the SAP Center. The Jets, currently sitting at 9-4-0, opened this six-game Pacific Division journey with a tough 3-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings, but tonight presents a very different challenge. Head coach Scott Arniel has been carefully studying the Sharks after their impressive 6-1 victory over the Seattle Kraken, noting that while their defensive zone play resembles Los Angeles, San Jose moves at a much faster pace. Arniel emphasized the Sharks’ youthful, quick transition game, saying it reminds him of other fast-moving teams like Utah and Seattle.
The game also marks a major milestone for forward Vladislav Namestnikov, who will skate in his 800th NHL game and his 190th with the Jets. Reflecting on his career since debuting in the 2013-14 season, Namestnikov highlighted the evolution of his play, particularly his defensive skills, which now allow him to play in any role or position. Arniel praised Namestnikov’s versatility and his ability to contribute in all situations, noting that adaptability is key to longevity in the league.
The Jets enter this matchup with a 4-1-0 record on the road after wins against the New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers, Minnesota Wild, and Calgary Flames, although their streak was interrupted by the Kings. Despite that setback, Winnipeg has bounced back well after losses this season, and the team worked on adjustments during a 40-minute practice in Los Angeles on Thursday. Forward Adam Lowry noted that road practices give the team valuable time to review games, correct mistakes, and implement improvements.
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For tonight’s matchup, the Jets’ lines include Connor-Scheifele-Vilardi, Namestnikov-Toews-Iafallo, Niederreiter-Lowry-Chibrikov, and Koepke-Ford-Pearson, with defense pairings of Lambert-Perfetti, Morrissey-DeMelo, and Stanley-Pionk. Goaltending duties are expected to be handled by Connor Hellebuyck. Nikita Chibrikov will make his return to the lineup, bringing speed and offensive creativity to Lowry’s line.
The Sharks, sitting at 5-6-3, are starting a quick two-game homestand, and they’ll rely heavily on 19-year-old sensation Macklin Celebrini, who scored a goal and had three points in their last win. San Jose’s scoring is balanced, with contributions coming from multiple players, often off the rush, making them a dangerous offensive threat. Kyle Connor emphasized that defending the Sharks requires teamwork, with every player responsible both in their own zone and on the attack.
Last season, the Jets swept the Sharks in their three-game series, but Winnipeg knows tonight’s game will be different. Lowry pointed out that San Jose has improved significantly, especially on defense, adding veteran presence to their fast, skilled squad. The puck drops at 9 p.m. CT, promising a high-paced, challenging matchup as the Jets aim to rebound and continue their strong road performance.
Cole Perfetti also made a positive step forward at morning skate, moving from non-contact to a regular jersey, signaling progress toward returning to the lineup. Meanwhile, Dylan Samberg and Gustav Nyquist remain sidelined in non-contact roles, keeping an eye on their recoveries. Fans can follow the action live on TSN 3 or tune into radio coverage on 680 CJOB/Power 97.
Tonight’s game will test Winnipeg’s resilience, speed, and defensive coordination, as they look to overcome a challenging Sharks team and maintain momentum on the road.
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