New York Rangers @ Winnipeg Jets (3/31) – Game Preview
The Winnipeg Jets will look increase their wild card lead as they take on the Chicago Blackhawks at home.
Game: New York Rangers (47-21-7, 101 points) @ Winnipeg Jets (39-25-12, 90 points).
Time: 7:00 PM CT
Arena: MTS Centre
How to Watch: TSN3, MSG
Preview
The pressure is on the Winnipeg Jets in this one, as the New York Rangers have clinched a playoff spot already. The Jets only have a 2 point lead over the Los Angeles Kings for the 2nd wild card spot in the Western Conference. They also sit 5 points behind the Minnesota Wild for the 1st wild card spot.
Even though the Jets face an uphill battle, they will finally be getting F Bryan Little back, according to the Winnipeg Sun. He had missed the past 11 games with an upper body injury. Little has 24 goals and 27 assists (61 points) on the season. His first line centering position is expected to be open for him tonight between Michael Frolik and Andrew Ladd.
Drew Stafford will also be a player to watch in this one. The former Buffalo Sabre is on a nine game points streak and has been part of the Jets’ rise over the past couple of weeks.
Head coach Paul Maurice has also chosen to roll with goalie Ondrej Pavelec in this one. This will be his 8th start in 9 games, despite allowing 4 goals and only saving 20 shots last game against Chicago.
Dustin Byfuglien has also been sharp since returning from injury two games ago. He has 3 goals already and seems like he cannot be slowed down at the moment.
The Jets will try to upset the Rangers, who are on a 2-game losing streak of their own. They will be without F Martin St. Louis in this one. The former Lightning player is dealing with a knee injury that has kept him out since March 18.
Henrik Lundqvist is expected to get the start in net for New York as well. He returned on this past Saturday night after dealing with a neck injury. Despite looking rusty during his return (4 goals allowed), it’s expected with a few games that he’ll return to form for the playoffs.
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