Winnipeg Jets (0-2-0, 0 pts)
Losing 7-2 at home to the upstart Toronto Maple Leafs on opening night is forgivable. What isn’t forgivable is giving up six more goals the next time out. Or blowing a two-goal lead by allowing five unanswered. I just don’t see a lot of defensive urgency from the Jets, who I thought could be in a position late for a wildcard spot to start the year. I appear to have been mistaken.
Steve Mason looked horrid in net and is giving up 6.53 goals per game. I guess the one saving grace here is Patrik Laine, who has continued to look like a future superstar in the NHL. However, his talent is clearly overshadowed by the deficiencies that are looming large thus far. I rank the Jets last. This is a huge week and a huge opportunity for them to turn things around from their rough start. They hit the road to take on the Oilers and the Canucks, before returning home to play Carolina to close the week.
Next: Pittsburgh Loss Exposes Lack of Accountability
It will be tough sledding. If the Jets pull out victories, then Winnipeg could vault up the power rankings quickly.
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