Eric Comrie’s Shining Moment
Winnipeg Jets goaltender Eric Comrie once again found himself in the spotlight, earning a win for the Jets against the Calgary Flames. The 29-year-old has been a consistent presence in net, and his performances should not be overlooked by the franchise. Comrie’s recent win, where he allowed just three goals on 24 shots and turned away all three shootout attempts, underscores his reliability. Drafted in the second round (59th overall) of the 2013 NHL draft, Comrie has the pedigree and the potential to make a significant impact for the Jets, especially as the team looks to solidify its playoff position.
The Heavy Load on Connor Hellebuyck
Connor Hellebuyck has been the backbone of the Jets’ goaltending, often carrying a heavy workload. Over the years, Hellebuyck has played more than 60 games five times, with his rookie season being the only campaign where he played fewer than 45 games. This consistent and demanding schedule has taken a toll, particularly evident in the first round of the playoffs against the Colorado Avalanche. Hellebuyck’s performance in that series, with a .870 save percentage (SV%) and a 5.23 goals against average (GAA), was one of the worst stretches of his career. While Hellebuyck has never attributed his poor performance to fatigue, it is a factor that cannot be ignored. The Jets would do well to manage Hellebuyck’s workload to ensure he is at his best for the playoffs.
A Comfortable Lead and the Case for Rest
The Jets currently have a nine-point lead over the Dallas Stars in the Central Division and the Western Conference. While complacency is never advised, the team’s strong position allows them to afford some strategic rest for their star goaltender. Laurent Brossoit, though outstanding during the regular season, only played in 23 games, while Hellebuyck played in 60. By allowing Comrie to make more starts down the stretch, the Jets can keep Hellebuyck fresh and ready for the challenges ahead. This strategy would not only benefit Hellebuyck but also give Comrie more opportunities to showcase his talents and build his confidence.
Comrie’s Consistent Performances
In 14 starts, Comrie has posted a 6-7-1 record, with a .910 SV% and a 2.59 GAA. His most recent performance against the St. Louis Blues, where he secured his third consecutive win, further demonstrates his capability. Comrie’s journey to the NHL is marked by significant milestones, including being selected for Team Canada’s 2015 World Junior team. His experience and familiarity with playing big minutes make him a valuable asset for the Jets. With the team’s strategic focus on managing Hellebuyck’s workload, Comrie’s consistent play provides a solid foundation for the Jets to maintain their lead in the standings.
Extending Namestnikov and the Pursuit for Depth
While the Jets recently extended Vladislav Namestnikov’s contract for two years at $3M AAV, this move should not halt their pursuit of a second-line center or another skilled forward. Namestnikov’s performance has been commendable, but the Jets need additional depth to compete at the highest level. The extension is a positive step, but the team should remain proactive in addressing other areas of need. By balancing their roster with skilled players at key positions, the Jets can strengthen their overall game and increase their chances of playoff success.
A Franchise Record and Future Prospects
The Winnipeg Jets’ 4-3 shootout win over the St. Louis Blues was more than just another victory; it set a franchise record for the ninth consecutive win over the Blues. This achievement highlights the team’s current form and the strong chemistry they have developed. As the Jets look to the future, managing the goaltending situation and continuing to build a deep and versatile roster will be crucial. The team’s strategic decisions, such as giving Comrie more starts and pursuing additional talent, are key to sustaining their success and positioning themselves as a formidable playoff contender. With a solid foundation and a focus on long-term goals, the Jets are well-equipped to make a significant impact in the NHL.
