Date: November 19th, 2024
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Location: Canada Life Centre, Winnipeg, MB
The Winnipeg Jets host the Florida Panthers tonight in what promises to be a competitive matchup. The Jets will look to avenge their 5-0 loss to the Panthers just a few nights ago, while Florida aims to build on its strong defensive play and continue its momentum this season.
Key Storylines
1. Goaltending Duel
This game features a compelling battle in the crease between Winnipeg’s Connor Hellebuyck and Florida’s Sergei Bobrovsky. Last game these goalies did not face off head to head, the Jets opted to use backup goalie Eric Comrie. Hellebuyck has been stellar at home this season, posting a .934 save percentage and a 1.88 goals against average, among the best stats for a goaltender on home ice. Meanwhile, Bobrovsky is coming off a shutout against the Jets on Saturday and has excelled on the road with a .918 save percentage and a 2.41 goals against average. Should be a great duel between two vezina calibre goalies.
2. Florida’s Defensive Mastery
The Panthers have been a defensive force since the return of Aleksander Barkov, who has helped stabilize their lineup. Florida has limited opponents to just 2.16 expected goals against at 5-on-5 in the last eight games, a trend they will aim to extend tonight. The structure this team plays with is something to admire, watch for it tonight when viewing the game.
3. Jets Home Advantage
Winnipeg has been dominant on home ice, boasting an 8-1 record while allowing the fourth fewest goals per game in the league at 2.39. The last change advantage will allow head coach Scott Arniel to deploy favorable matchups, a crucial factor as they seek redemption for their recent loss in Florida last week.
Players to Watch
- Mark Scheifele (Jets): Leading the offense for Winnipeg, Scheifele will be key in breaking through Florida’s tough defensive structure. This season he sits at 21 points 9 goals 12 assists.
- Aleksander Barkov (Panthers): A two-way dynamo, Barkov’s presence boosts Florida’s attack and helps neutralize opposing top lines. Since his return to the lineup Florida is 6-2.
- Sam Reinhart (Panthers): The explosive offensive start for the freshly signed forward has been key in the Panthers success to start the season. He leads the team with 28 points, 13 goals and 15 assists.
- Connor Hellebuyck (Jets): The reigning Vezina Trophy winner will be motivated to step into the crease tonight after Saturday’s loss. He brings the team some much needed momentum heading into this game.
Game Outlook
The Jets will need to generate more scoring chances and capitalize on their opportunities, as they managed only three high-danger chances in their previous meeting. Conversely, the Panthers will aim to replicate their defensive performance while leaning on Bobrovsky’s steady goaltending. With both teams elite netminders, goals may be hard to come by, making this a likely low-scoring affair.
Puck drops at 8 p.m. ET, and fans can expect a tightly contested game that showcases playoff caliber hockey early in the season.
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