ATSWINS

4 Reasons the Winnipeg Jets Are the NHL’s Best Team

Updated Nov. 7, 2024, 4:25 p.m. by Old Prof, NHL Trade Talk 1 min read
NHL News

The Winnipeg Jets blazing 12-1-0 start to the season firmly established them as a force to be reckoned with in the NHL.

Even after they dropped a hard-fought 6-4 game to the Toronto Maple Leafs, they won their next four games in a row.

That kind of performance has underscored why they are one of the leagues elite teams if not the best.

Here are four key reasons why the Jets are a powerhouse this season and could be one of the top contenders for the Stanley Cup.

Reason 1: The Jets Have Outstanding Special Teams Play A significant contributor to Winnipegs success has been their special teams.

The Jets have excelled in both the power play and penalty kill, showing discipline and skill that gives them an edge in tight games.

In the game against Toronto, they effectively killed penalties and capitalized on their power-play opportunities, staying competitive throughout.

A consistently strong power play can wear down opponents, while an effective penalty kill keeps momentum on their side.

While sustaining these numbers across the season is difficult, their special teams have provided an early-season boost that separates them from many other teams.

Reason 2: The Jets Get Elite Goaltending from Connor Hellebuyck Goaltending is often the foundation of a successful team, and with Connor Hellebuyck in the net, the Jets have one of the best.

Hellebuycks elite play has been a steadying force for the Jets, enabling them to stay competitive even when they face defensive lapses.

He has a unique ability to steal games, allowing Winnipeg to win matchups they might otherwise lose.

Although Hellebuyck allowed six goals against Toronto, his stellar play so far shows he can be relied upon to deliver high-caliber performances.

A netminder of his caliber can make all the difference in a long season.

Reason 3: The Jets Have Depth and Offensive Firepower The Jets offense isnt reliant on a single line or playerthey have a depth of talent that generates consistent scoring from multiple lines.

Kyle Connor , who recently set a franchise record with his nine-game point streak, has been one of the leagues most effective forwards.

Meanwhile, Mark Scheifele , Josh Morrissey , and other key players add offensive firepower that keeps opponents on their toes.

The Jets ability to roll out multiple scoring threats makes them especially difficult to defend against, as opposing teams cant simply focus on one line or individual.

They have class players throughout the lineup.

Reason 4: The Jets Have Improved Team Structure and Discipline Winnipegs key improvement area has been its increased focus on structure and discipline.

In the past, particularly during playoff pressures, the Jets sometimes lost their composure, but this season, they have shown a commitment to a consistent system.

This increased structure keeps the Jets composed, allowing them to withstand challenges and avoid panic in high-stakes moments.

This discipline will be essential to their long-term success, particularly against top teams.

Final Thought: One Loss Hasnt Defined the Jets Season Although the Maple Leafs halted the Jets perfect record, one game doesnt overshadow their impressive start.

With solid goaltending, deep offensive talent, and excellent special teams, the Jets have established themselves as a legitimate contender and one of the NHLs best teams this season.

Their loss to Toronto was their seasons only bump in the road.

But, if they stay the course, they are poised to remain near the top of the standings and make a deep playoff run.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission..

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