Winnipeg Jets at Anaheim Ducks
On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe share updates, insights, and key quotes from the morning skate, along with lineup decisions and injury notes. These reports arrive a few hours before puck drop.
Coach Arniel Seeks Team Response
After a frustrating 2–1 loss to the San Jose Sharks on Friday that marked the team’s second consecutive defeat to open a six-game road trip, Jets head coach Scott Arniel used Saturday for meetings and reflection. He’s now calling for stronger execution on Sunday.
“To be straight up, I had one-on-ones with players,” Arniel said at Honda Center. “Because we have a large number of new guys and we’re teaching them as we go, I never really got a chance since training camp to say, ‘OK, this is now what I expect of you.’”
“Each guy knows their role and what I expect from them. So let’s go out and do it as a whole.”
Injury Update
There was encouraging news at Sunday’s morning skate: forward Cole Perfetti, who missed the first 14 games with an ankle injury, is expected to make his season debut against the Ducks.
Photo Highlight
San Jose Sharks goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic made a key stop during the second period of Friday’s game in San Jose, Calif. (Vásquez/The Associated Press)
Author’s Summary
Following two losses to start their road trip, the Winnipeg Jets regroup in Anaheim, where Scott Arniel urges unity and Cole Perfetti prepares for his long-awaited return.