GM #15: Winnipeg Jets @ Anaheim Ducks
The Winnipeg Jets have faced challenges on their west coast road trip, losing their first two games to the LA Kings and SJ Sharks while managing to score only one goal against opposing goalies. This downturn has brought the True North franchise’s record to 9-5-0 at the start of the NHL 2025-26 season.
Coach Scott Arniel’s plans have been disrupted by injuries since the season began, and the team has not matched the performance they displayed during their President’s Trophy-winning campaign. Although the current record (18 points) is not drastically worse than last year's (26 points), expectations for another strong start like last season’s 13-1-0 were low.
Performance at 5-on-5 Play
The underlying statistics are concerning, especially in 5-on-5 situations—a critical factor often predicting playoff success. Despite this, when comparing the Jets’ last two seasons:
- Goals For: Winnipeg is on track to score just 6 fewer 5-on-5 goals than last year, projecting 164 compared to 170.
- Their Goals For per Game rate remains nearly unchanged.
"Despite dropping 6 spots in the overall rankings, Winnipeg is only on pace for 6 less 5 on 5 goals than last year (170 vs a projected 164) and their Goal For per Game number is almost identical."
This shows that while the team’s overall results have slipped, some core offensive metrics remain steady.
Author’s summary: The Jets’ start to the season has been inconsistent due to injuries and tougher competition, but key offensive stats suggest potential for recovery as the campaign progresses.