“Jets Take Flight: Exciting Transformations in Special Teams”

WINNIPEG — There were numerous reasons for the Winnipeg Jets to celebrate after they defeated the Nashville Predators 3-0, marking their fourth straight victory on Monday.

Connor Hellebuyck accomplished 22 saves, achieving his fifth shutout of the season and the 42nd of his professional journey.

Gabriel Vilardi netted two goals during a power play in a span of just 62 seconds.

Additionally, seasoned defenseman Dylan DeMelo tallied his first goal of the season in front of a sixth sold-out audience at Canada Life Centre.

“Everyone was exceptional and embraced our specifics and played excellently,” Hellebuyck mentioned.

He acknowledged his role in it, contributing to his NHL-leading 24th win of the season (24-5-1) and the 299th of his career.

“It’s enjoyable to be in this locker room and compete behind this group of players. I’m having a blast,” said the 31-year-old Hellebuyck, currently in his 10th NHL season.

Upon achieving his 300th career victory, he will be only the 41st goalie in league history to attain that milestone.

“That’s definitely one of the goals you’re aiming for — 300 wins, 40 shutouts, and 500 games played. Two down, one to go,” Hellebuyck stated.

The two-time Vezina Trophy recipient also takes pride in the achievements of the team.

For instance, DeMelo scored at 17:18 of the second period, giving the Jets (27-10-1) a 1-0 advantage.

“I mean, it was a beautiful goal. A sniped shot,” Hellebuyck remarked. “What can you say about him? He does it all now.”

Vilardi beamed when asked about DeMelo’s goal.

“It was fantastic. He was so fired up, it was great to witness,” Vilardi expressed. “It’s always delightful to see him score and celebrate, that’s for sure.”

Juuse Saros blocked 25 shots for Nashville (11-19-7), which fell for the second consecutive match.

Defenceman Jeremy Lauzon of the Predators incurred his third penalty of the match with 7:43 left in the third. Nashville was additionally called for too many players on the ice, leading the Jets to a two-man power play for 48 seconds.

Vilardi found the back of the net 15 seconds later to extend the lead to 2-0 and added another during the power play.

“When we adhere to our structure and identity, I think we’re extremely challenging to defeat, really tough to score against,” Vilardi commented. “And part of it was (Hellebuyck), undoubtedly. It’s enjoyable to win. We must keep it up, though.”

Nikolaj Ehlers and Kyle Connor both contributed two assists.

The Jets converted 2-for-5 on the power play and have recorded a power-play goal in a season-high seven straight games.

The Predators entered the match with the NHL’s premier penalty kill at 86.9 percent. They were 0-for-2 on the power play.

“We’ve discussed a lot about (Connor) and (Mark Scheifele), and I consistently remind everyone there’s a third member on that line,” Jets head coach Scott Arniel mentioned regarding Vilardi.

“Whether it’s five-on-five or on the power play, he’s a sizable player possessing great skill, and he doesn’t stray far from the net. He doesn’t require much time or space. They simply need to get it close to his blade, and he’ll usually manage to get a shot off.”

Predators head coach Andrew Brunette stated that Winnipeg’s top-ranked power play stems from the skill of the players.

“I feel they excel down low, making those subtle plays around the net,” Brunette said. “And, naturally, Connor and Scheifele, they excel at locating each other, while Morrissey moves exceptionally well on the blue line.

“It’s just a really well-rounded power play, creating some impressive plays.”

He expressed disappointment that a tightly contested game through two periods didn’t sway in their favor in the third.

“Heading into (the) third, 1-0, we needed to find a way to gather some points, but we kind of gave it away, conceding the last three goals and two on the power play,” Brunette said.

“It’s the top power play in the league, so yes, it’s frustrating because you’re so close, but you’re finding ways to lose instead of finding ways to win, and that’s what’s disheartening.”

NOTES: The Jets are 7-1-1 in their last nine encounters. … Connor extended his point streak to seven games with six goals and nine assists. … Hellebuyck has kept opponents to three or fewer goals for 16 successive games.

This report by The Canadian Press was initially published on Dec. 30, 2024.

Judy Owen, The Canadian Press