The 2026 NHL season has brought unexpected challenges for the Winnipeg Jets, contrasting sharply with their successful run in the previous year. The team, which claimed the Presidents’ Trophy for the 2024-25 season, now finds itself at the bottom of the NHL standings. Currently, the Jets are last in the Central Division, the Western Conference, and the entire league.
Will Winnipeg Jets Mirror Last Year’s New York Rangers?
The stark turnaround echoes the fate of the New York Rangers, who won the Presidents’ Trophy with 114 points in the 2023-24 season but fell drastically short last year, missing the playoffs entirely. The Jets are now in a similar predicament, struggling to find a way out of their slump.
Current Standings and Playoff Aspirations
- Winnipeg Jets: Last in Central Division and NHL.
- 2024-25 Stats: 1-6-3 record in the last 10 games.
- Current Points Standing: 7 points behind the Los Angeles Kings, holding the second wild-card spot.
The Jets have experienced a decline in performance across the board. While they previously showcased impressive statistics, they now rank 23rd in goals per game and have seen their power play drop to 16th. This downturn has raised concerns about their playoff viability.
Goaltending Woes
A significant factor in the Jets’ struggles has been the absence of 2024-25 Hart Trophy winner Connor Hellebuyck, who was sidelined for three weeks. His return did not significantly improve the Jets’ performance, posting a .894 save percentage and 2.52 goals-against average upon his comeback.
Future Considerations
As the Jets look towards the future, the prospect of securing a high draft pick looms. The possibility of selecting a generational talent such as Gavin McKenna could provide a silver lining to a disappointing season. Winnipeg’s general manager, Kevin Cheveldayoff, has wisely retained the team’s first-round draft pick and may be looking to capitalize on this opportunity.
Historical Context and Challenges Ahead
The Jets are accustomed to being playoff contenders, qualifying for the postseason in seven of the last eight years. This unexpected slump is shocking for fans, especially after their successful run last year. The volatility within the NHL highlights how quickly fortunes can change for any team.
As the season progresses, the Jets face an uphill battle to regain their footing and avoid mirroring the disheartening trajectory of last year’s Rangers. The parity in the league underscores the unpredictability teams can experience from one season to the next.
