Winnipeg Free Press https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/hockey/jets/maurice-needs-to-solve-jets-defensive- deficiencies-451756153.html

Maurice needs to solve Jets' defensive deficiencies

By: Scott Campbell

The Columbus Blue Jackets didn’t leave it to chance on Tuesday, totally dismantling the Jets in every area of the game, winning 5-2 and ending the Jets’ three-game win streak.

After being blown out in the first two games because of atrocious defensive-zone work, Jets Paul Maurice restored order by having his players collapse to the middle of the ice in the defensive zone. Considering what we had watched, I didn’t blame him.

Attempting to establish positioning they could hold — and keep the play to the outside as much as possible — made sense to me, even though it’s not a favourite of mine. Sometimes, drastic measures are needed.

Backboned by stellar play from goalie Connor Hellebuyck, three wins followed.

Let’s throw out the Columbus game and look at those wins and the system.

The problem moving forward is that while certain types of chances against are lessened, it also traumatizes the Jets’ ability to transition and go on the attack, taking advantage of their quick- strike power and high-end talent.

That talent still holds in these low-event games Maurice wants them to play, but to alesser extent as you’re also producing fewer chances to score.

We saw that during their winning streak — the wins over the and were tight games. The Jets won 4-2 against Vancouver (with an empty-netter) but were outshot 32-20. They followed that with a 2-1 win over the Hurricanes but were outshot 29- 21.

Two wins with a grand total of 41 shots (and being outplayed in both games) seems like a tough recipe to equate with consistent future success.

The win in Edmonton to start the streak off was better, outshooting the Oilers 43-39 and outplaying them.

Still, being the better team in only one out of six games has many fans concerned.

If you’ve been reading my column for a while you know I’ve had a problem with Maurice’s systems in the past.

The Jets scored the seventh-most goals in the league in the 2016-17 season while riding a nifty shot percentage (fifth overall).

With their group of young snipers it’s too early to tell if that’s repeatable.

So while I said that collapsing to the middle was a good place to start for the reeling Jets, they need to push that to fuller zone coverage.

This allows players who are battling for a puck to know approximately where their teammates are at all times (they’re each covering an assigned area of the ice). In today’s fast, high- pressured game, it’s a big advantage when you need to move the puck quickly.

It’s also one of the reasons to forget man-on-man coverage ever existed — a pressured defenceman can recover a puck and not realize his partner is covering "his" designated opponent at the , negating him as an option. Who knows where his other teammates have been led by their checks?

Zone is a preference of mine from playing and coaching when my team had high-end talent and some defencemen on it that didn’t have quick feet in tight, like the Jets.

There are many different tweaks that teams make using it, triggers that cause a reaction from the players. You don’t quit playing defence, but you do need to make good reads.

Coaches choose a system, gambling they’re right. I’d prefer to bet on the Jets’ talented snipers getting more chances rather than depending on the odd break, hoping for the puck to land on the stick of one of the Jets’ gunners in a tight game.

However, I’m watching with great interest to see how this unfolds. We’re watching a coach go against a few things that seem to be necessities to win in today’s NHL.

His player deployment came under question again when he promoted Brandon Tanev from a questionable third-line role to the second line (for the rest of the game) after got hurt in the Carolina contest. This reminded many fans of Maurice’s usage of Chris Thorburn in the past.

While Tanev had a decent game overall, he had a few last year, too, where he landed his blazing speed in the right spots yet accomplished very little overall.

Maurice’s post-game comment about Tanev was priceless when he said his forechecking was comparable to Perreault’s.

Perreault always reads the play extremely well, gets there fast and has a great stick — he’s one of the best in the league at it. Every once in a while, Tanev gets to a good spot.

It’s things like that, his glowing appraisal of Matt Hendricks and seemingly refusing to acknowledge that successful teams run three scoring lines that leave some concerned about his thought process.

There’s obviously a chance his fascination with having defensive guys in the lineup is driven by the unsteady goaltending and poor defensive play over the past couple of seasons.

While understanding the latter part of that, his solutions over that time period have been suspect at the very least. It almost seems like he’s playing not to lose (defence, defence, defence), rather than playing to win.

The problem with defence-only type players is that they spend too much time in their own zone defending, when the best defence is controlling the puck in the other team’s end.

We’ll see what Maurice has up his sleeve as some of his cherished defenders get back in the lineup. https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/hockey/jets/myers-takes-practice-off-but-hell-be-in- lineup-coach-says-451698483.html

Myers will play after missing practice Jets turn to Hellebuyck in matchup with division rival

By: Jason Bell

When misses practice, it’s easy for Jets fans to think the worst.

Myers, who battled injuries all last season, didn’t practise Thursday, but Jets head coach Paul Maurice says the lanky defenceman will play tonight against the Wild.

"Yup, fine. A little stiffness from practice (Wednesday). He’ll be in (Friday)," Maurice said.

Defenceman Dustin Byfuglien, who returned to the ice after missing Wednesday’s session, will also be in the lineup.

Maurice said Ben Chiarot could make his first appearance of the season, in place of Tucker Poolman on the blue line.

Meanwhile, centre Matt Hendricks (lower body) and rear-guard Dmitry Kulikov (upper body) both wore yellow "no-contact" jerseys during Thursday’s skate and are "very close" to returning to the lineup, Maurice said.

Centre Adam Lowry (upper body) is considered day-to-day, while left-winger Mathieu Perreault (lower body) is on the injured-reserve list and is out for at least another three weeks.

Connor Hellebuyck, who backstopped Winnipeg to three straight wins before Maurice gave Steve Mason the crease in Tuesday’s 5-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, gets the start in net against the Wild.

He’s excited about the club’s first test of the season against a Central Division rival.

"Minnesota’s a really good team and they play a very hard style. I think it’s exactly what we need," said Hellebuyck, who has given up five goals in three starts and is sporting a 2.11 goals- against average and .937 save percentage.

"We want to get back on track and I think we’ve been practising really well the last couple of days, so this should be a good test."

After tonight’s battle, Winnipeg has a five-day break before hitting the road for back-to-back games in Pittsburgh (Oct. 26) and Columbus (Oct. 27).

● ● ●

Nikolaj Ehlers didn’t need to see the video or hear a lecture from his coaches to know how poorly he performed Tuesday.

The dynamic Danish-born forward, who had a superb start to the season and was named the NHL’s first star of the week Monday, struggled against the Blue Jackets.

He coughed up the puck near the Columbus blue line, resulting in a Cam Atkinson breakaway that gave the Jackets a 1-0 second-period lead, and a half-hearted checking effort later opened the door for another goal against.

Maurice dropped him from the top line with and to the second unit with Bryan Little and midway through the contest and the trio will stick together against Minnesota.

"I wasn’t good. And coach needs to try something. I’m playing with Little, who’s so strong defensively and offensively he finds that spot, he makes great plays. He just has great hockey sense. And Patty knows how to shoot the puck. It’s going to be exciting to get back together and, hopefully, we can get this thing going."

Ehlers led the team with five goals, including a pair of winners, and added two assists to propel the Jets to three straight victories during his big week, which was highlighted by a natural hat trick in a 5-2 triumph over the host on Oct. 9. https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/hockey/jets/feisty-lemieux-gets-wild-nhl-debut-in-jets- jersey-451687253.html

Lemieux eager for NHL debut Rookie winger will join new Jets teammates against the Wild

By: Jason Bell

Brendan Lemieux has planned for this his entire life — and another 72 hours of waiting won’t spoil the moment.

The rookie winger will, indeed, make his NHL debut with the (3-3-0) tonight when they host the Central Division-rival (1-1-2). Game time is 7 p.m.

Lemieux was recalled from the of the on Tuesday and almost made his NHL debut that night against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

But when Brandon Tanev, bothered earlier by a back problem, was cleared to play, Lemieux watched the 5-2 defeat from the press box.

He’ll be a player against the Wild, Jets head coach Paul Maurice confirmed on Thursday following practice.

Lemieux, who was eager to get the word out to his family, including his dad — former NHL star — admitted this is an emotional time.

"Obviously, I was really excited the other day when I got the call and thought I was in. It’s a roller-coaster, but any day you spend in the NHL is a great day," he said.

"It’s been a fun week so far, and I’m excited now.

"I’ve been waiting my whole life for this. It’s been a dream since I watched my dad play in the NHL. I’m really blessed to have the opportunity."

Lemieux took line rushes on left wing, playing with Shawn Matthias at centre and Nic Petan on the right wall.

The 21-year-old forward, who was born in March 1996, mere months before his father helped the Avalanche clinch their first , was off to a solid start with the Moose, scoring three goals and adding two assists along with nine minutes in four games before his promotion.

He had 12 goals, seven assists and a team-high 130 penalty minutes in 61 games during an injury-shortened 2016-17 AHL campaign.

The former junior star with the joined the Jets as part of the blockbuster trade with the in 2015 that also brought Tyler Myers, , the now-departed and the draft pick that turned out to be to town in exchange for and .

The road to the NHL wasn’t the direct route Lemieux envisioned for himself when he was younger, he admitted.

"It took a lot longer and it’s a lot harder than I thought it would be.

"But it was worth it.

"Some of the stuff that you learn along the way, you find out is almost as important as the game itself," said Lemieux, a second-round pick of the Sabres in 2014.

"Obviously, I make it seem like I’m really old now but I’m still really young. I’ve wanted to play since I was 18 and I watched my roommate (Aaron) Ekblad (of the ) in the NHL and now he’s on his second contract. It feels like it’s been a long time, but really it’s been a great learning opportunity and I’ve been able to grow — grow my game and grow as a person."

Lemieux immediately adds an edge to Winnipeg’s bottom-six forward group. He’s a dual- purpose performer who hits hard, isn’t shy about dropping the gloves and has scored greasy goals at every level he’s played.

"It’s hard to put into words. I just know that I bring something that not a lot of guys bring," he said, when asked to define his skill set.

"I’m willing to go to hard areas and I’m hard to play against. That’s really the bottom line — that I try to be hard to play against and not make it easy for anybody to do anything.

"The word for it is sandpaper. That’s what my dad did and I’ve always looked up to him to want to be able to do (what he did). Hopefully, that’s what I can do."

Indeed, father Claude was one of the league’s all-time great pests, but he backed up the chippiness by producing 379 goals and 786 points in 1,215 games over parts of 21 NHL seasons.

Brendan, 6-1, 210 pounds, said he hopes his folks can make it to Winnipeg in time for his milestone game, adding that their support has been the backbone of his growth, both as a person and a player.

"My dad has put in almost as much work as I have to help me grow as a player. Obviously, my mom (Deborah) has sacrificed a lot, with all of those early mornings, just like every other guy in this dressing room," he said.

"It’s different for a player’s kid. There’s a lot that makes it easier when your dad played in the NHL and paves the way. But then there are some things that are more of a challenge. It’s been hard on my mom, but I’m sure they’re happy and it’s all been worth it to get a chance.

"It’s just one game. A lot of guys have played just one game. Obviously, I want to stick and want to be around to help this team. But you’ve got to start somewhere."

After last season with the Moose, the young power forward felt he needed to up his speed game, and that meant shedding some weight without losing strength and stamina. He trained in Orange County, Calif., and dropped more than 10 pounds as he prepared for training camp.

Maurice said the youngster has done everything right to get to a place where the organization trusts he’s ready to step into an NHL lineup.

"He grew up in a hockey life and certainly values this opportunity. He’s practised well here. I saw his last Moose game and he played well. We’re looking for some energy on those third and fourth lines and he if he plays his game, he should be able to bring that," Maurice said.

"He’s got a physical presence to his game. The big change for Brendan is his speed. He worked hard this summer and changed his body composition. He did a lot of really, really good work, so he’s faster. Hopefully, he can channel that and show that speed. (It) should be good, I’m looking forward to seeing him play."

Petan said he and Lemieux weren’t on the same line during their brief time together with the Moose, but he’s anxious for the opportunity to share in his buddy’s debut.

"It’s always special to play that first game, so we’ll make him feel comfortable. We’re good friends, so he asked me a lot of questions and I know his energy’s going to be there, for sure," said Petan, who worked out with the first power-play unit Thursday.

"He’s going to be super-excited and we’re super-excited for him." https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/hockey/jets/arenas-exploring-facial-recognition- 451774633.html

Arenas exploring facial recognition

By: Jason Bell

While some NHL teams ponder installing high-definition cameras and facial-recognition software in their arenas, it’s not certain if the Winnipeg Jets plan to go that route to beef up security.

A senior executive with one NHL club recently told TSN he expects facial-recognition technology will be adopted by his team and others in the league within the next two years.

"One of the reasons we haven’t seen this adopted is because we’ve been lucky," the executive said, in a story by TSN senior correspondent Rick Westhead. "We’ve seen attacks at concerts, at the Boston Marathon, at the Olympics and at international soccer games. If there was an incident at a hockey game, (cameras and facial-recognition) is something that would have already happened in the NHL."

If True North is contemplating installing the technology, the organization that owns the Jets and Manitoba Moose of the AHL isn’t tipping its hand.

"True North is consistently looking at various new tools and technology in the marketplace as we strive to meet and exceed best practices for security in our venues," said Rob Wozny, vice- president of communications and community engagement for True North Sports & Entertainment.

"For security reasons, we don’t go into detail about what resources we’re exploring. If and when facial-recognition technology is something we’re ready to bring into Bell MTS Place, we will keep you posted."

The technology can identify thousands of points on a person’s face — as sports fans file into arenas, ballparks and soccer and football stadiums — and compare that data with other photos, such as those kept on a police database.

The technology has improved as professional sports leagues come to terms with being terrorist targets, according to the TSN report.

For now, Bell MTS Place is equipped with metal detectors at all entrances. Once fans have been given security clearance to enter, they are free to leave at any point, but may not return during the event.

Wozny said True North is satisfied with its current security and safety protocols.

"Yes, and furthermore, as part of our ongoing commitment to providing a safe experience for our patrons at Bell MTS Place, we have invested in a number of updated security tools, resources and policies, including the recent addition of our security dogs and the introduction of our no re- entry policy that took effect on Sept. 1, 2017," he said.

"True North works closely with authorities, police departments and other venues across North America, ensuring we’re constantly reviewing and updating our security plans."

Winnipeg Sun http://www.winnipegsun.com/2017/10/19/lemieux-set-for-jets-debut

Lemieux set for Jets debut Forward gets a shot after close call

BY KEN WIEBE, WINNIPEG SUN

There won’t be a false alarm for Brendan Lemieux this time around.

After nearly replacing Brandon Tanev in the Winnipeg Jets lineup on Tuesday, Lemieux will actually make his NHL debut on Friday against the Minnesota Wild.

“You try to go about it like every other day, even though it’s not every other day,” said Lemieux, who was recalled from the American Hockey League for the first time on Tuesday. “It’s emotional. Obviously, I was really excited the other day when I got the call and thought I was in. It’s a roller coaster, but any day you spend in the NHL is a great day.

“I’ve been waiting my whole life for this. It’s been a dream since I watched my dad (Claude) play in the NHL. I’m blessed to have the opportunity and thankful for the people who helped get me here”

Lemieux, who was acquired by the Jets in the blockbuster deal that sent Evander Kane and Zach Bogosian to the Buffalo Sabres on Feb. 11 of 2015, spent a lot of time on Thursday discussing his road to the NHL.

“It took a lot longer and it’s a lot harder than I thought it would be. But it was worth it,” said Lemieux, who had three goals and five points in four games with the Manitoba Moose this season. “Obviously, I make it seem like I’m really old now but I’m still really young. I’ve wanted to play since I was 18 and I watched my (Barrie Colts) roommate (Aaron) Ekblad (of the Florida Panthers) in the NHL and now he’s on his second contract.

“It feels like it’s been a long time, but really it’s been a great learning opportunity and I’ve been able to grow my game and grow as a person. I take a lot of pride in the fact I’ve played with the Moose and I’ve been developed by this organization. There’s a sense of pride that you weren’t just a guy that came right out of junior and joined the NHL, you had to work for it.”

It’s the first Central Division game of the season for the Jets, who are 3-3 so far.

“It’s funny. I feel like I’ve played Minnesota more than any other team. I’ve played them in the American League a lot and then played them every pre-season game I feel like,” said Lemieux. “Keep it simple. Play my game. Bring what I bring. That will probably be the easiest part of playing. Just doing what I do because I don’t know any other way.

“That’s really the bottom line; that I try to be hard to play against and not make it easy for anybody to do anything. The word for it is sandpaper.”

After mentioning the impact Moose head coach Pascal Vincent and former assistant coach Mark Morrison had on his development, Lemieux was quick to thank his parents for everything they’ve done for him along the way.

“It’s obviously really exciting. My dad has put in almost as much work as I have to help me grow as a player,” said Lemieux. “Obviously, my mom (Deborah) has sacrificed a lot, with all of those early mornings, just like every other guy in this dressing room. It’s different for an (NHL) players’ kid. There’s a lot that makes it easier when your dad played in the NHL and paves the way. But then there are some things that are more of a challenge.”

Lemieux is hungry for more than just a taste of the NHL.

“It’s just one game. A lot of guys have played one game,” said Lemieux. “Obviously, I want to stick and want to be around to help this team. But you’ve got to start somewhere.”

Lemieux, who was chosen 31st overall by the Sabres in the 2014 NHL Draft, will replace Marko Dano and is expected to play on a line with Nic Petan and Shawn Matthias.

“(Lemieux has) a tremendous amount of power in his game,” said Petan. “He brings a lot of energy, he skates really well and I think the main thing is he gets on the fore-check.”

Jets head coach Paul Maurice is eager to see what Lemieux can do and is hopeful he can help provide a spark for a bottom-six forward group that hasn’t provided any offence at even strength.

“We’re looking for some energy on those third and fourth lines and if he plays his game, he should be able to bring that,” said Maurice. “He’s got a physical presence to his game. The big change for Brendan is his speed. He worked hard this summer and changed his body composition. He did a lot of really, really good work, so he’s faster. Last year, he had the ankle injury in camp and I think it affected him for the greater part of his year. “I think this game is all about speed now. You can’t get in on the forecheck and you can’t be a physical player anymore, really, if you can’t skate. Hopefully he can channel that (Friday) and show that speed.” http://www.winnipegsun.com/2017/10/19/chiarot-ready-to-return

Chiarot ready to return Jets blue-liner could be summoned from press box

BY KEN WIEBE, WINNIPEG SUN

Ben Chiarot has been waiting patiently for his chance to come.

After working hard during the past three seasons to establish himself as a regular with the Winnipeg Jets, the defenceman sat out the first six games of the season as a healthy scratch.

He was a victim of the numbers game for two key reasons: the Jets signed Dmitry Kulikov as a free agent on July 1 and rookie blue-liner Tucker Poolman is ahead of schedule after undergoing bilateral shoulder surgery during the off-season.

Those factors pushed Chiarot to the press box, but he’s likely to replace Poolman and make his season debut on Friday against the Minnesota Wild.

“It’s kind of like your first pre-season game. You’re trying to feel good on the ice and get your legs under you. You can’t replicate what a game feels like,” said Chiarot, who has averaged roughly 15 minutes of ice time per game with the Jets in his 170 NHL contests. “Going from playing every game to being out of the lineup for every game so far can be mentally draining, but you show up, do your job, work hard and wait for your name to be called.

“When it’s called, be ready.”

Jets defenceman Tyler Myers missed Thursday’s session for maintenance, but he’s expected to suit up against the Wild and will likely have Chiarot as a partner.

“Ben’s worked hard to put himself in a position to get a game,” said Jets head coach Paul Maurice. “Had he not, then we wouldn’t have considered him for that.

“Tucker, being on the off side against a real fast team (the Columbus Blue Jackets), (it) was more of a challenge for him. That’s part of the learning curve.” http://www.winnipegsun.com/2017/10/19/things-to-watch-in-jets-vs-wild

Things to watch in Jets vs. Wild 7 pm CT, Bell MTS Place, TV: TSN3. Radio: TSN 1290

BY KEN WIEBE, WINNIPEG SUN

THE BIG MATCHUP Blake Wheeler vs Mikko Koivu Put the captains under the spotlight as these geographical rivals meet for the first of five times this season. Wheeler drives his line with his work ethic, while Koivu does the same for the Wild. They’ll see plenty of one another on Friday.

Keys to the game Back again Connor Hellebuyck will attempt to extend his personal winning streak to four games after watching Steve Mason get the start on Tuesday. Hellebuyck made his NHL debut against the Wild and is 2-1 with a 2.53 goals-against average and .908 save % with one shutout in six appearances against the Central Division rival.

Puck management required The Wild can be a frustrating team to play against, so the Jets can’t afford to turn the puck over like they did in Tuesday’s 5-2 defeat to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Make Dubnyk work Although the Jets will be focusing on tightening up defensively, they’ll need to use their speed to generate more offence. They’ve enjoyed some success against Wild goalie , who is 7-7-1 with a 2.78 goals-against average and .903 save % in 15 games against the Jets.

Stay dangerous shorthanded As the Jets continue to work on being more disciplined and killing more penalties off, one thing they’ve been doing is producing shorthanded markers. In just six games, the Jets already have shorties from Brandon Tanev, Tyler Myers and Joel Armia.

Watch out for Staal (again) Wild centre Eric Staal, who is anchoring the top line thanks to a rash of injuries, has enjoyed plenty of success against the Jets during his career, chipping in 26 goals and 61 points in 68 games.

Sportsnet.ca http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/jets-nikolaj-ehlers-quick-start-feel-ive-taken-big-step/

Jets’ Nikolaj Ehlers on quick start: ‘I feel I’ve taken a big step’

By Sonny Sachdeva

The Winnipeg Jets offered up hockey fans a bevy of highlight-reel tallies from a certain European scoring phenom last season, continuing their steady ascent up the rankings on the back of their young sniper. But while it was Patrik Laine and Mark Scheifele leading the charge last season, it’s been Nikolaj Ehlers carrying the mail through the early goings of 2017-18.

Fresh off a career-high 25-goal, 64-point effort, Ehlers has upped the ante thus far this season, posting a team-leading five goals and seven points through Winnipeg’s first six games this year.

“I feel I’ve taken a big step,” Ehlers told IIHF.com’s Lucas Aykroyd on Tuesday. “I’ve just got to be more consistent and put that into my game. I feel calmer with the puck, and I feel faster. I feel more experienced. And overall, defensively, I’ve taken a big step. It’s something that I’m still working on. It’s something I’ll work on till I retire.”

Ehlers picks up hat trick as Oilers drop second in a row

The 21-year-old Dane echoed a similar sentiment in regards to what his club needs to work on in order to take the next step as well.

“Consistency,” Ehlers said. “Keeping this group together. Playing as a team. Playing the game we want to play. Sticking to our systems. We’ve worked hard the last two years to get to where we are right now. Consistency is key for us. We know we can do it. We believe in ourselves. It’s just a matter of going out there and doing it.”

While Ehlers has his mind on the NHL at the moment, he’s keeping close tabs on the Danish national team as well, as his country is set to host the 2018 IIHF World Championship in May. With seven Danish skaters plying their trade in the NHL this season – Ehlers, Frederik Andersen, Oliver Bjorkstrand, Lars Eller, Frans Nielsen, Mikkel Boedker and – the Jets star said Denmark is on the rise among hockey nations.

“They’ve been working really hard overall in junior, producing new young players,” Ehlers said. “The coaches are getting smarter. We’re getting coaches from the U.S. and Canada coming over and coaching the elite pro teams. And we’ve got a lot of young guys playing in the best league in Denmark. So it’s amazing the big step we’ve taken and how many NHL players a small country like Denmark has produced.”

Ehlers has close ties to the national team, not only because he’s currently the top Danish skater in the big leagues, but also because his father Heinz was tabbed to serve as an assistant coach for the 2018 tournament.

“It’s awesome,” Ehlers told Aykroyd. “If we were going to end up being at the world championship together, I know the kind of coach he is. I know the kind of father he is. He’s great at both roles.

“He’s going to bring in some modern hockey, so I think it’ll be a good step for Danish hockey.”

ESPN.com http://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/21087596/nhl-quick-fixes-edmonton-oilers-montreal- canadiens

Quick fixes: Edmonton Oilers need to block shots; need to fire their GM

By ESPN.com

Pick a team that's off to a bad start and apply one big fix:

Chris Peters: The Winnipeg Jets really need to figure out how they're going to manage their goaltending situation. This is not the only thing that needs fixing, but stability in net might go a long way toward stabilizing the Jets as a whole. It's too small a sample to project that Steve Mason is going to be as bad as he's been to start the season, but he is also coming off his worst season in years. Meanwhile, Connor Hellebuyck's 2016-17 showing did not inspire much confidence either. That said, the 24-year-old only had 82 total games of experience coming into this season. We're still not entirely sure what he's going to be long term, but his track record as a prospect and how he played as a rookie showed a lot of promise. Hellebuyck is 3-0 in his three starts, and has a .937 save percentage. Meanwhile, Mason is 0-3 with a .846 save percentage. The Jets have been leaky in front of Mason, no question, and there are other things to be addressed, but giving the team a chance to get used to playing in front of one or the other -- and at this point it should be Hellebuyck -- will help as the season progresses. On top of that, Hellebuyck needs the reps. Winnipeg appears to be a team on the cusp, but there's always been one or two things holding them back. Goaltending doesn't have to be one of them.

TSN 1290 (AUDIO LINKS) http://www.tsn.ca/radio/winnipeg-1290/cullen-jets-getting-out-shot-early-on-1.890031

Cullen: Jets getting out-shot early on

Scott Cullen of TSN.ca speaks with Kevin Olszewski about the Jets 3-3 start to the season, the Maple Leafs lineup depth, and the reasons behind Edmonton's slow start. http://www.tsn.ca/radio/winnipeg-1290/morrissey-speed-a-main-focus-for-jets-1.889690 (MORRISSEY AT 2:00:00)

Morrissey: Speed a main focus for Jets

Winnipeg Jets defenceman Josh Morrissey joined the Big Show to talk about the club moving on from their tough loss against the Blue Jackets and why pushing the pace of play is key area the team looks to improve on. http://www.tsn.ca/radio/winnipeg-1290/poolman-from-surgery-to-training-camp-to-nhl-play- 1.890224

Poolman: From surgery, to training camp, to NHL play

Winnipeg Jets defenseman Tucker Poolman joins the Afternoon Ride to discuss the journey leading up to his NHL debut, starting with NCAA hockey at UND, through offseason surgery on both shoulders, to being nervous for his first preseason game, to his first preseason game and solo warm-up lap in Edmonton. http://www.tsn.ca/radio/winnipeg-1290/watters-maurice-has-a-fine-balance-to-perambulate-with- penalties-1.890165

Watters: Maurice has a fine balance to perambulate with penalties

Bill Watters joins the Afternoon Ride to discuss the challenge ahead of Winnipeg Jets head coach Paul Maurice in reigning in the team’s penalties. www.winnipegjets.com https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/lemieux-to-make-nhl-debut-friday-night-against-the-minnesota- wild/c-292080890

Lemieux to make NHL debut Friday night against the Minnesota Wild 21-year-old has five points in four games with the Manitoba Moose by Mitchell Clinton @MitchellClinton / WinnipegJets.com

WINNIPEG - Brendan Lemieux has been waiting a long time for his NHL debut.

Now it's only one night away.

The 21-year-old will be in the line-up when the Winnipeg Jets wrap up a three-game home stand against the Minnesota Wild Friday night at Bell MTS Place.

"I'm excited, and I've been waiting my whole life for this," said Lemieux after Thursday's practice. "It's been a dream since I watched my dad play in the NHL to play, and I'm just really blessed to have the opportunity to be able to do it."

His father, Claude, played 1,215 games in the NHL, and during his playing days often brought young Brendan around the dressing room. Playing in the NHL has been a dream since that time, and with his first game just over 24 hours away, Lemieux said it was a longer road than he anticipated.

"Some of the stuff you learn along the way is almost as important as the game itself. I make it seem like I'm really old, but I'm still young," said Lemieux, who used to room with Florida's while the two were teammates in the OHL with the Barrie Colts.

"My dad has put in almost as much work as I have to help me grow as a player. My mom has sacrificed a lot, all those early mornings, just like every other guy in this dressing room.

"It's different for a player's kid. There's a lot that makes it easier when your dad plays in the NHL and paves the way, then there's some things that are more of a challenge. It's been hard on my mom, but I'm sure they're happy that it's all been worth it. It's just one game. A lot of guys have played one game. I obviously want to stick and help this team win. But you have to start somewhere."

Lemieux was initially recalled on Tuesday, when Brandon Tanev's back spasms flared up earlier in the day. Tanev was able to play that night against Columbus and played 11:17 and finished as the team leader in hits with five.

In four games with the Manitoba Moose this season, Lemieux has three goals and five points.

Head coach Paul Maurice was in attendance for Lemieux's most recent game, a night when Lemieux scored twice to go along with five shots on goal in a 4-1 win over the .

"He needed to go down, get better, and improve, and use his time there. I think he did. He practiced hard there according to Pascal (Vincent)," said Maurice. "I liked that, and certainly the time I saw him on the ice in his game here, he was driving, and driving hard. Had he not been, he wouldn't have been in the line-up."

The practice habits Lemieux has shown both at the AHL level and in the last two days at the NHL level earned him the opportunity to get in the line-up - but his work off the ice made those practice habits possible.

He made a conscious effort to lose some mass in his upper-body in an effort to get lighter and quicker.

"He's got a physical presence to his game. The big change for Brendan is his speed. He worked hard this summer. He changed his body composition. He did a lot of really good work," said Maurice. "This game is all about speed now. You can't get in on the forecheck and you can't be a physical player anymore if you can't skate. Hopefully he's able to channel that energy tomorrow, show that speed, and it should be good. I'm looking forward to seeing him play."

Lemieux was drafted 31st overall by the Buffalo Sabres in 2014, before being acquired by the Winnipeg Jets in a trade in 2015. Though the Sabres aren't the Jets competition tomorrow night, facing the Wild might just bring even more familiarity for Lemieux.

"I feel like I play Minnesota more than any other team. We play (Iowa) in the American League a lot, and then I play them every preseason game I feel like," said Lemieux with a smile, adding playing his first game on home ice will be special.

"I'm happy to be able to play in front of the fans here at home. I take a lot of pride that I've played for the Moose and I've been developed by this organization," he said. "I just want to make sure my body feels good and I can keep my focus on staying in the present and being grateful for the opportunity."

ICE CHIPS After taking part in practice yesterday, defenceman Tyler Myers wasn't on the ice for Thursday's session. Maurice said the 6'8" blue-liner was stiff after yesterday's skate, and was held out today. He expects Myers to be in the line-up against Minnesota.

With Myers off the ice, the line rushes looked like this:

Connor-Scheifele-Wheeler

Ehlers-Little-Laine

Tanev-Copp-Armia

Lemieux-Matthias-Petan

Morrissey-Trouba

Enstrom-Byfuglien

Chiarot-Poolman

Dmitry Kulikov and Matt Hendricks were both wearing non-contact jerseys, but are getting closer to a return to full contact.

"We kept them out of a few drills, but they both got around fine," said Maurice. "I'd like to see them in a regular colour here next week."

Maurice added a decision will be made tomorrow on whether Ben Chiarot will see his first action of the regular season as well.

"He's worked real hard, and prepared himself well," said Maurice. "Tucker (Poolman) being on the off side against a real fast team, it was more of a challenge for him, but that's part of the learning curve. Ben has worked hard and put himself in a position to get in a game."

Connor Hellebuyck will start in goal against Minnesota on Friday night. https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hes-amazing-at-it---jets-players-on-the-art-of-blocking-shots/c- 292085876

"He's amazing at it" - Jets players on the art of blocking shots Hendricks, Wheeler, Little, and others on teammates who excel at a tough skill by Jamie Thomas @JamieThomasTV / WinnipegJets.com

WINNIPEG - Forward Matt Hendricks skated with the Winnipeg Jets at practice again this morning in a non-contact yellow jersey as he continues to recover from an injury that he sustained blocking a shot in the pre-season.

Hendricks is well known for his shot blocking and he had an infamous moment back in January of 2016 when he took a shot in a tender area.

"A couple years ago in Dallas I took one in the can and it shattered my can pretty much. That was pretty sore," said Hendricks with a few of his Jet teammates laughing while he told his story. "At the end of the day it doesn't get much worse than that."

With that story in mind, other players in the Jets dressing room looked back on their careers and came up with the best answer they could to the question:

Who is the best shot blocking teammate you've had in your career?

MATT HENDRICKS "(Washington teammate) Boyd Gordon. (It's) a different level at the NHL doing it when you're eating pucks from , Shea Weber, Dustin Byfuglien, and countless other guys. He was amazing at it. When it comes down to it, it's just making the choice if you're going to get in the lane or not get in the lane. He always made that choice to get in the lane."

BLAKE WHEELER "We had a few guys in Boston who were (good at it). I mean, Big Z (Zdeno Chara) was so big that he ate everything up, he was a good shot blocker. Shane Hnidy was a great shot blocker, he had all the (extra) gear on. All the extra stuff on, he was a good shot blocker. Played with Brent Sopel for a couple games in Atlanta and he was always a good shot blocker too."

BRYAN LITTLE "I would say (Chris) Thorburn. He got a piece of a lot of pucks and just the way he was one of the first guys I've seen kind of go out on one knee, kind of down (going out) to his defenceman. I mean, it took some guts. He's going down, pucks coming face high at him. So I think it was a mixture of how good he was at it and the bravery to try that, so I would say him."

STEVE MASON "My last couple of years (in Philadelphia) I had Nick Schultz. He was just so good with it. He took the right sight lines away, it didn't matter who was teeing it up he was fearless to go down. He was definitely the best."

ANDREW COPP "It's got to be Tyler Motte (Copp's teammate at the University of Michigan). That guy just loves to eat pucks, I don't know why. He lives for it. But he's not like psycho at it, he's just in the lane. I don't know how he blocks so many shots."

PAUL MAURICE "You know what I've coached a lot of guys. On the back end (of his coaching career) I would have to say Dennis Seidenberg (in Carolina) was fearless. Up front, I don't know who the best one is but Scotty Walker (Carolina) was the kind of guy who would put his face in front of shots and I've seen Matt Hendricks do it an awful lot. He's a little more careful with it wearing the yellow jersey. But you'll see him get in front of it any way he can." https://www.nhl.com/jets/video/unmasked-connor-hellebuyck/t-277437442/c-53661803

Unmasked: Connor Hellebuyck

NHL.com correspondent Kevin Woodley breaks down Winnipeg’s Connor Hellebuyck's summer of core muscle work hat NET360 goalie camp