The Winnipeg Jets were dealt a major blow just hours before their do-or-die Game 7, with star center Mark Scheifele ruled out of tonight’s crucial matchup against the St. Louis Blues.
Scheifele hasn’t been on the ice since taking a massive hit from Blues captain Brayden Schenn in Game 5. While he showed up to Saturday’s practice in a track suit, he won’t be suiting up when it matters most.
The timing couldn’t be worse for Winnipeg.
Scheifele has been absolutely on fire this season, playing all 82 regular-season games and racking up 39 goals and 87 points. Only Kyle Connor put up better numbers for the Jets, with 41 goals and 97 points.
Even in this series, Scheifele was making his presence felt with two goals and six points in just five games before getting hurt.
The Jets really struggled without their star center in Game 6, managing only two power-play goals despite Vladislav Namestnikov and Adam Lowry trying to fill the massive hole in their top six.
There’s more uncertainty on the blue line too. Defenseman Logan Stanley will be a game-time decision.
Stanley’s been a physical force in this series – maybe too physical. He’s leading all playoff players with 42 penalty minutes in just five games. If he can’t go, Haydn Fleury would likely step in, though Fleury’s minus-12 rating in 39 regular-season games doesn’t inspire much confidence.
The penalty box has been getting plenty of use in this series. St. Louis has racked up 148 penalty minutes through six games – and somehow the Jets have managed even more than that.
For a team that’s already missing its offensive engine in Scheifele, the Jets will need to find a way to stay disciplined while still playing their physical game. Their season depends on it.
