For the first time in two games, the Winnipeg Jets will be making a change to their lineup that currently carries a 1-1-0 record on this three-game road trip.
That one lineup change will be on the Jets defense. Nineteen-year-old Finnish defensemen, Ville Heinola will be replacing Sami Niku on defense.
This is a move that many people thought Paul Maurice was going to make for tonight’s game against the Senators. Niku has had an unimpressive start to the season and he took two penalties in Tuesday night’s game.
Heinola’s time to impress for the Winnipeg Jets
Paul Maurice said that Heinola will enter right onto a defensive pairing with Josh Morrissey. This pairing will look a bit unconventional in the fact that both players are left-handed shots.
Ville Heinola set to make his season debut tonight! pic.twitter.com/jCvyhk5gMZ
— Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) January 21, 2021
Tonight will be Heinola’s first game action since he represented Finland at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship. While earning a gold medal for his country, Heinola performed extremely well and was named to the Media All-Star Team of the Tournament.
Last year, Heinola had one goal and four assists in eight games played for the Jets. It should be fun to watch Heinola play in his first NHL game of 2021.
Other than entering Heinola into the lineup for tonight’s game, there will be no other changes for the Jets as they look to win their second straight against the Senators.
Puck drop for Heinola’s 2021 season debut against the Senators is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Central Time in Ottawa. For all you need to know about tonight’s matchup a full game preview can be found here.
Winnipeg Jets Fans: Do you think it was a smart move by the Winnipeg Jets coaching staff to take Niku out of the lineup and replace him with Ville Heinola? Leave your comments below!
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