Opinion
3 min read

Jets Set to Soar or Stall Against Rangers' Resistance?

As the Winnipeg Jets prepare to face off against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden, fans are bracing for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Jets, coming off a mixed bag of recent performances, have shown both resilience and vulnerability that could tip the scales in this upcoming game.


Oct 30, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; New York Rangers center Mika Zibanejad (93) and Winnipeg Jets center Adam Lowry (17) stretch for the puck in the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports

On March 6th against the Seattle Kraken, despite a valiant effort and outshooting their opponents 33-24, the Jets fell short by one point in a 3-4 loss. Their powerplay strength was evident but not enough to secure victory. This was followed by an impressive turnaround on March 4th when they dominated the Buffalo Sabres with a convincing 5-2 win. The Jets showcased their offensive prowess by netting five goals on even strength and adding two empty-netters for good measure.


However, it was their most recent game on March 2nd against the Carolina Hurricanes that truly highlighted their potential. After being held scoreless for two periods, they erupted with five third-period goals to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. This kind of explosive capability cannot be ignored as it speaks volumes about their ability to strike hard and fast when it matters most.


Oct 30, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) blocks a tip in attempt from Winnipeg Jets center David Gustafsson (19) in the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports

The Rangers should not underestimate WPG's capacity for sudden offensive surges. However, NYR's home advantage at Madison Square Garden could play into their hands as they look to stifle WPG's momentum with robust defense and capitalize on any lapses in concentration.


The key battle will likely be fought in front of each net; goaltending has been crucial for both teams' successes this season. For WPG fans hoping for another miraculous third-period comeback might be wishful thinking against NYR's disciplined squad that knows how to protect a lead.


Oct 30, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; New York Rangers defenseman Erik Gustafsson (56) fires the puck past Winnipeg Jets center Mason Appleton (22) in the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports

In conclusion, while past performances suggest that WPG has both firepower and fragility in equal measure, they will need more consistency if they are going to overcome NYR’s formidable challenge at home soil.


Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ online or MSG TV network as these two teams clash on March 19th at Madison Square Garden starting at 7:00 PM Eastern Time (ET).

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