Thanksgiving Eve brings a host of exciting NHL matchups that will engage hockey fans. Four significant games are on the schedule, featuring teams with varying fortunes this season. These games showcase emerging talent and veteran stars alike, making them must-watch events during this festive time.
Winnipeg Jets vs. Washington Capitals
The Winnipeg Jets are facing a challenging period without their star goalie, Connor Hellebuyck. Recovering from knee surgery, he is expected to miss at least a month. Last season, Hellebuyck earned both the Hart Trophy and the Vezina Trophy. His stats show an 8-6-0 record along with a 2.51 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage in 14 games.
Stepping in is Eric Comrie, who has a 4-3-0 record this season, with a 2.87 GAA and .899 save percentage. He struggled in a recent game against the Minnesota Wild, suffering a 3-0 defeat despite making 27 saves. The Jets (12-9-0) will take on the Washington Capitals (12-9-2) at Capital One Arena at 7 p.m. ET. Capitals’ superstar Alex Ovechkin recently contributed to a 5-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, bringing his season total to 21 points with 10 goals and 11 assists.
New York Rangers vs. Carolina Hurricanes
Meanwhile, the New York Rangers are striving for consistency after a rocky start. With an 11-11-2 record, they have struggled at home while performing better on the road. This season has not unfolded as expected, especially after Mike Sullivan’s appointment as head coach.
The Rangers will challenge the Carolina Hurricanes (14-6-2), who boast the best record in the Eastern Conference. Carolina is 6-2-1 at home, aided by solid performances from defenseman K’Andre Miller, even with the absence of Jaccob Slavin. This game will take place at Lenovo Center at 7 p.m. ET and promises to be a thrilling encounter between these division rivals.
Minnesota Wild vs. Chicago Blackhawks
The Minnesota Wild (12-7-4) are riding a wave of momentum, with five consecutive wins, including two shutouts. They have collected points in eight straight games, with a record of 7-0-1 during this streak. In contrast, the Chicago Blackhawks (10-8-4) find themselves on a three-game losing streak.
This matchup at United Center, starting at 8:30 p.m. ET, is noteworthy for its national TV coverage. The Wild will face off against rising star Connor Bedard, who has an impressive total of 31 points (13 goals, 18 assists) over 22 games.
San Jose Sharks vs. Colorado Avalanche
In another exciting clash, the San Jose Sharks will visit the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena at 9 p.m. ET. This game features top NHL point producers, Macklin Celebrini and Nathan MacKinnon. MacKinnon currently leads the league with 37 points (17 goals, 20 assists), playing a key role in the Avalanche’s success (16-1-5).
On the other side, Celebrini is establishing himself as a formidable player with 34 points (14 goals, 20 assists) in his second NHL season. The Sharks (11-9-3) are looking to continue their resurgence, having recovered from a rough start of 0-4-2.
- Winnipeg Jets vs. Washington Capitals: 7 p.m. ET
- New York Rangers vs. Carolina Hurricanes: 7 p.m. ET
- Minnesota Wild vs. Chicago Blackhawks: 8:30 p.m. ET
- San Jose Sharks vs. Colorado Avalanche: 9 p.m. ET
These Thanksgiving Eve games are not to be missed, providing thrilling action as teams vie for victory and fans celebrate the holiday spirit.
