Three Takeaways: Hellebuyck makes 24 saves in return on Niederreiter’s special night
Logan Stanley opened the scoring 9:13 into the first period with his fifth of the season. Morgan Barron added his second in as many games late in the first to make it 2-0. Alex Iafallo netted his second in as many games 3:39 into the second period, and Gabriel Vilardi added two more, his 15th and 16th, to lift the Jets over the Capitals.
Nino 1000
The most popular man in Switzerland hits 1,000 @NHL games 🇨🇭
MVP returns
Niederreiter’s milestone wasn’t the only thing to celebrate, as Hellebuyck returned between the pipes following knee surgery, one week earlier than the minimum 4-6 week return timeline.
The Jets struggled without Hellebuyck in the crease, going 3-8-1 while also battling issues on special teams. His return appeared to have an immediate impact on the penalty kill, as Winnipeg killed off four of Washington’s five power plays.
Jacob Chychrun snapped Hellebuyck’s shutout bid 16:32 into the third period on a 5-on-3 man advantage, but Hellebuyck still turned aside 24 shots and was named Second Star of the Game.
“No, I’m back. I’m back baby. Let’s play.”
Winnipeg Jets hockey
Saturday’s performance looked a lot like last season’s Presidents’ Trophy-winning team. The Jets got scoring throughout the lineup, special teams were clicking, and goaltending was solid. It arguably felt like the most complete game of the season in a much-needed win for a struggling club.
“Yeah, for sure it was. It was 20 guys. That was complete, throughout the lineup, all four lines looking a lot alike. D were real solid,” said head coach Scott Arniel. “Obviously Helle was good when he had to be, but you’re right. That was one of the best, most complete games of the year.”