Jets turn to AHL hot streak sensation Thomas Milic for his NHL debut, aiming to ignite a struggling team against the Hurricanes.
The Winnipeg Jets are turning to one of the AHL’s hottest goaltenders in hopes of ending a rough stretch. Rookie Thomas Milic is set to make his NHL debut Friday against the Carolina Hurricanes, stepping in at a pivotal time with star netminder Connor Hellebuyck sidelined.
Winnipeg has dropped three of its last four games since Hellebuyck’s departure, with Eric Comrie taking on the bulk of the goaltending duties. Comrie, who has started four straight games, has allowed 13 goals during the last three losses. He'll get a much deserved night off as Milic will draw into the crease for his first game of his NHL career.
Milic has been one of the AHL’s hottest goaltenders this season with the Manitoba Moose. He arrives in Winnipeg on a four-game winning streak, posting a 5-2-2 record with a .921 save percentage, a 2.14 goals-against average, and a shutout. His overall AHL resume includes a 29-23-8 record and a 2.88 GAA, marking him as one of the league’s most promising young netminders.
The Jets will look to get an additional spark to the lineup as they'll be playing hard for the youngster to record his first NHL win as well as end their losing skid. It would be a memorable debut for the 22-year-old BC native if he can produce a standout game in a must-win game against one of the best teams in the NHL.
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