Winnipeg Jets Preseason Notes: Big Debuts on the Back to Back

The Winnipeg Jets are preparing for a back to back and using most of their more important players, including their stud goaltender. Let’s hope for a better showing than last night.

The Winnipeg Jets got blasted by the Edmonton Oilers, although they were without their big stars. This was very much a B Squad, as they were without Patrik Laine, Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, Mark Scheifele, Blake Wheeler, Jacob Trouba, Dustin Byfuglien and Tyler Myers.

If I’m forgetting anyone, forgive me. I’m not too worried about the outcome of this game, but I would prefer if they played better. As good as it was to see Laurent Brossoit play well against a low-level Minnesota squad, it was equally bad to see Eric Comrie get torched.

I understand Connor McDavid is going to make people look like that, especially with very little in the way of defensive support. But allowing five points to Ty Rattie? Nobody wants that. Again, though, I’ts preseason.

Still, 30 saves in 37 chances for Comrie has to make you wonder if he has a chance against Brossoit in this “competition”. I don’t know if the Jets want him to have one, either.

But good news about the back to back: Mark Scheifele will be making his debut. Along with Wheeler, Connor and Hellebuyck. I also expect some mixing on the blueline, so that’ll be a thing to watch.

As for the regulars, it’ll be nice to just see them in action. The first powerplay unit from last season will all be together tonight, so maybe they’ll do better than the one for ten they did in the first two games.

Another thing of note, if Joseph Morrow gets more time: He’s notched a goal and an assist in the two games so far.  I doubt he’ll be in the lineup tonight, but a point in each game is a good way to get noticed, especially with some openings back there.

But this is the first game where you’ll be able to see all the big guys playing, so, soak in it. It’s going to be a long season.