The Jets stunned the Blues with a thrilling third-period comeback to grab Game 1 of their first-round playoff series, winning 5-3. Now they’re looking to take a commanding 2-0 lead on home ice Monday night.
Kyle Connor played hero for Winnipeg, scoring the game-winner late in the third before Adam Lowry quickly added an insurance goal that sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
It was a huge night for the Jets’ top stars. Connor finished with three points, notching a goal and two assists. Mark Scheifele matched that output with three points of his own.
The Blues didn’t go down without a fight. Jordan Kyrou gave St. Louis hope with a power-play goal in the second period that put them up 3-2. But they couldn’t hold the lead.
Vegas oddsmakers expect more success for the home team in Game 2. The Jets are heavy favorites at -190, while St. Louis comes in as +159 underdogs.
But there’s reason to think Game 2 might play out differently. The betting experts’ computer model suggests some of Game 1’s heroes might have a tougher time:
• Kyle Connor is projected for fewer points after his big opening night
• Blues’ points leader Robert Thomas likely won’t match his Game 1 goal
• Jets defenseman Josh Morrissey could see his production dip despite two assists in the opener
The odds get pretty interesting if you combine those three predictions – a same-game parlay would pay out at +575.
For the Blues to even the series, they’ll need to figure out how to contain Winnipeg’s top scorers and hold onto leads. The Jets just need to keep doing what worked in Game 1: stay patient and trust their stars will come through when it matters most.
The puck drops for Game 2 Monday night in what’s shaping up to be another intense playoff battle between these Central Division rivals.
