Winnipeg Jets Playoffs: Notable Performers from the First Round

May 24, 2021; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets forward Mark Scheifele (55) is congratulated by his team mates on his goal against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period in game four of the first round of the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bell MTS Place. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

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Winnipeg Jets, Blake Wheeler (26) Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Blake Wheeler

When looking at the Winnipeg Jets’ regular season stats, there is one stat, in particular, that is an eye-opener. That stat is Blake Wheeler’s plus/minus.

In Wheeler’s 50 regular season games played, he amassed a -17 plus/minus. The closest player to Wheeler was Nathan Beaulieu, who was -5. This stat was a bit worrisome considering the Jets were playing the top two point scorers in the NHL.

During this series, we watched Blake Wheeler turn his game around. Wheeler was tied for second on the team with a +3 plus/minus. In fact, Wheeler was not on the ice for a goal against the whole series.

Wheeler had points in three of the four games throughout the series. The Jets captain had two goals and two assists including two in game four.

Wheeler was a factor on both sides of the ice for the Winnipeg Jets. He struggled during the regular season, but those struggles quickly faded away throughout this first round series.

When Blake Wheeler is on top of his game he is fun to watch and Winnipeg feeds off of his energy and leadership.

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