Winnipeg Jets: Three Stories to Watch in Training Camp

1. Will Pierre Luc Dubois Have a Bounce Back Season?

Pierre Luc Dubois was the Jets’ biggest acquisition last season through a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Though many fans were disappointed to lose sniper Patrik Laine in that trade, most were excited that the return was the player picked right after Laine in the 2016 Entry Draft.

Throughout his NHL career Dubois had proven to be a legitimate second-line NHL center who uses his combination of skill and size to make life difficult for opposing teams. Jets fans were particularly excited based on Dubois’ play in the 2019-20 playoffs with the Columbus Blue Jackets when he had 10 points in 10 games, and was the best player on the ice in many of the games against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Unfortunately for Jets fans and Dubois, he had his worst season in the NHL after the trade. There were many legitimate reasons that Dubois, the team, and fans have cited that contributed to his struggles. Whatever factors contributed, the Jets need Dubois to return to the level of play he had before last season.

Dubois’ game is not just about scoring points, as he has demonstrated the ability to play well defensively and play physically. However, for the Jets to contend in a much tougher Central division, the team needs him to put up somewhere between 50 – 60 points.

Fans will be closely watching Dubois in training camp to see if he looks more like the player he was with the Blue Jackets. I believe that Dubois will bounce back from a challenging season and return to the player he was, which will be great for the Jets and for him as he enters his restricted free agency in the summer of 2022.

Winnipeg Jets Fans: What stories are you looking forward to in Jets training camp? Leave your comments below!

*All Stats Provided by Elite Prospects and Contract Information Provided by Cap Friendly*