Jets Announce Gabriel Vilardi Will Be Out Week-To-Week
Winnipeg Jets forward Gabriel Vilardi will be out week-to-week with an upper-body injury.
Winnipeg Jets forward Gabriel Vilardi (13) looks to make a pass against the Los Angeles Kings during the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-Imagn ImagesHC Scott Arniel spoke to the media following Monday morning's practice and announced the 25-year-old is indeed injured, but it is not related to the puck he took to the ear in Sunday's 5-3 loss to the Buffalo Sabres.
It's an unfortunate circumstance for both the Jets and Vilardi. With 11 games remaining on the schedule and just a few weeks left before the beginning of the playoffs, it puts Vilardi's availability in jeopardy.
The Kingston, ON native is enjoying a career season, scoring 27 goals and 61 points in 71 games. He's truly come into his own playing with the Jets, becoming a force in front of the net and showing great chemistry with Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor.
In his absence, Alex Iafallo was promoted to the top line during this morning's line rushes. Iafallo was brought to Winnipeg in the same trade that helped the organization acquire Vilardi. Iafallo has scored 11 goals and 24 points in 71 games this season.
If Vilardi's injury carries into the playoffs it'll be a major blow for a team that could be without Neal Pionk. The Jets' power play has struggled to find consistency since the trade deadline, and losing one of the best net-front players in the NHL will not help that cause.
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