Jets Recall Top Prospect; Star Forward Absent From Practice

The Winnipeg Jets have recalled top prospect Brad Lambert from the Manitoba Moose with Nikolaj Ehlers absent from today's morning skate.

The Winnipeg Jets have recalled top prospect Brad Lambert from the Manitoba Moose with Nikolaj Ehlers absent from today's morning skate.

Ehlers played 16:29 against the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday, not missing a shift and completing the game. His absence from practice is unexpected and one the Jets cannot afford to be long-term. The Jets take on Utah HC, and the last time these two teams met was on Monday where they were defeated 5-2 and Ehlers picked up primary assists on both Jets goals.

With Adam Lowry already out, two-thirds of the newly formed second line could be out as Ehlers is a game-time decision with an illness. 

In Ehlers' absence, Lambert was called up from the AHL. The 21-year-old is joining the Jets for his second stint this season and skated on the fourth line alongside David Gustafsson and Morgan Barron during this morning's practice. 

In his first call up with the Jets, Lambert failed to record a point in any of the four games he played. With the Moose however, Lambert has scored three goals and 16 points in 29 games. 

The Finnish international has loads of skill and speed but is still in the process of learning how to use both of those traits to create consistent offence. He could learn how to do so by talking to and watching both Ehlers and Kyle Connor who have made their living in the NHL by doing each of those things. 

Lambert will likely have limited minutes to showcase what he can do if he does play but could make an impression by showing a high compete level and glimpses of what he can do.

Stay updated with the most interesting Jets stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favourites on Google News to never miss a story.