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    Julian Gaudio
    Julian Gaudio
    Apr 15, 2025, 17:10
    Updated at: Apr 15, 2025, 17:10
    Winnipeg Jets forward Gabriel Vilardi (13) skates away from San Jose Sharks forward Collin Graf (51) during the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-Imagn Images

    The Winnipeg Jets held an optional skate this morning, which featured Dylan Samberg. Gabriel Vilardi skated on his own with the Jets' strength and conditioning coach Jake Wolff.

    Following the Jets' 4-1 defeat to the Edmonton Oilers, HC Scott Arniel told the media that Samberg would be "fine" despite exiting the game after blocking a Connor McDavid slapshot. Despite his claim, there still felt a bit of uncertainty from Jets fans. 

    His participation in practice today should serve as a sigh of relief that he truly is healthy and will be ready for the beginning of the playoffs.

    The uncertainty for Vilardi will remain high, but after watching him skate on his own, Jets fans should be encouraged that he will join the team in the near future. Arniel hasn't ruled out Vilardi for Game 1 of the playoffs or any games in the future. Still, the usual process for a player returning from an injury is first practicing without contact before practicing with contact. 

    His status has been upgraded to day-to-day by Arniel, as it was previously week-to-week. The sooner the Jets can get the 25-year-old in the lineup, the better. 

    The Jets have one regular season game remaining and more load management is expected. 

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