The Winnipeg Jets hold a 8-3-2 record over their last 13 matchups against the Edmonton Oilers, who they square off against in their season opener Wednesday night
The Winnipeg Jets kick off their 2024-25 NHL campaign with a tough matchup versus the defending Western Conference Champions in the Edmonton Oilers. It'll be a big spot for the Jets to prove themselves as many are doubting their capabilities entering this season. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman spoke on his podcast "32 Thoughts" about his expectations for the Jets this upcoming season and said that many people he have spoken to don't believe the Jets are better than last season and that they will likely miss the playoffs.
Hopefully, the Jets use it as bulletin board material and earn a hard fought win on the road against a tough opponent. Since rejoining the NHL, Winnipeg holds the upper-hand with a 23-18-3 record over 44 games versus Edmonton. The matchup has only gotten better for the Jets over time as they hold a 8-3-2 record over their last 13 matchups.
There was some uneasiness heading into tonight as star netminder Connor Hellebuyck had missed back-to-back practices to attend to a family matter. The good news is he is still expected to play after getting in skating Tuesday afternoon. It should be a big game for the two-time Vezina winner as Hellebuyck has played in all 13 of their recent matchups versus Edmonton and boasts a 2.32 goals-against average and a .933 save percentage, making 30 or more saves in all but one of those games.
We can also expect a big performance from Winnipeg's star winger Kyle Connor as he has excelled in games versus Edmonton with points in nine of their last ten matchups, totalling four goals and seven assists for 11 points. He recorded three goals with a pair of assists for five points in the playoffs last season and will hope to ride the momentum into Oil Country on Wednesday.
The Jets wrapped up the preseason with a 3-2-1 record, including a doubleheader against Edmonton. They lost the first game in overtime but bounced back with a decisive win in the second game. The Oilers participated in two additional exhibition games, but it didn’t work in their favor as they finished with a 3-5-0 record in the preseason.
Both teams will look to start off their season on the right note in what is sured to be an exciting matchup and thrilling start to the season. Catch the game on Sportsnet at 8:00 PM MT, or catch the live broadcast on the Oilers Radio Network, including 880CHED. Tickets for the game are still moderately priced at $132 or more for the season opener if you are in the Edmonton area and want to attend tonight's game.