1. Patrik Laine shows his worth
This offseason was filled with speculation and rumors regarding Jets’ star forward, Patrik Laine. It felt like every week there was a new trade rumor involving Laine, but ultimately the Jets decided not to move the twenty-two-year-old before the start of the new season.
In just the first game of the season, Laine showed why he is one of the Jets’ best players and why he is one of the most dynamic players in the entire NHL.
Laine started the scoring for the Jets on a majestic breakaway goal. Laine walked in on Markstrom and released his world-class wrist shot over Markstrom’s shoulder to tie the game at one.
Although Laine is known for his quick release, he made a beautiful pass to set up the Jets’ third goal. On the Jets’ five-on-three man advantage, Laine looked like he was going to pass to Blake Wheeler on the opposite point. Instead, he refiled a diagonal pass to Connor, who ripped a one-time in the Flames’ net.
Laine capped his breathtaking display in overtime. He made a fantastic play in the Jets’ defensive zone to fool the Flames attackers. He then created a two-on-one up the ice and after he got his stick lifted when trying to release his first shot, he stayed with the play and took a fantastic shot to give the Jets the win. (Video below is provided by the NHL)
One other noteworthy play from Laine in last night’s contest was when he jumped in for Kyle Connor after the American was hit from behind. Laine jumped in right away for his teammate and it was great to watch.
Laine played absolutely fantastic last night and his performance is definitely the number one talking point from the Jets win.
Winnipeg Jets Fans: What was your key takeaway from yesterday’s Jets game versus Calgary? Leave your comments below!
*All Stats and Provided by the NHL*