Kukla's Korner Hockey

Kukla's Korner Hockey

Have The Winnipeg Jets Improved?

08/22/2014 at 7:24am EDT

from Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun,

Are the Winnipeg Jets better right now than they were at this time last year?

Although there’s still nearly a month to go before main training camp, it’s a question that is generating plenty of discussion these days, whether it be around water coolers or in dressing rooms all across Manitoba....

While realizing the game is played on the ice and not on paper, let’s take a closer look at how the Jets are shaping up right now, position by position.

Goalies

Returnee: Ondrej Pavelec

Candidate for promotion: Michael Hutchinson

The wild card: Connor Hellebuyck

Who’s out: Al Montoya (Florida Panthers)

The verdict: Worse

Given how well Montoya played as the backup last season and the fact Hutchinson has only three NHL games on his resume, it’s tough to argue the Jets aren’t in a worse position between the pipes. Granted, they’re expecting improvement from Pavelec, believe that Hutchinson is ready to make the jump to the NHL after an excellent season in the minors and the future looks bright for Hellebuyck, who is turning pro after a brilliant college career but needs some seasoning. Pavelec understands the importance of the upcoming season and it’s time for him to take the next step in his progression.

more

Create an Account

In order to leave a comment, please create an account.

About Kukla's Korner Hockey

Paul Kukla founded Kukla’s Korner in 2005 and the site has since become the must-read site on the ‘net for all the latest happenings around the NHL.

From breaking news to in-depth stories around the league, KK Hockey is updated with fresh stories all day long and will bring you the latest news as quickly as possible.

Email Paul anytime at [email protected]

Most Recent Posts

Most Recent Comments

Comment by bigfrog in Kukla's Korner Hockey from the entry Nashville's Top Line - 2 hours ago
Comment by exor54 in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Time To Talk On A Day Off - 3 hours ago
Comment by RWHockey13 in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Time To Talk On A Day Off - 4 hours ago
Comment by damndogrevenge in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Time To Talk On A Day Off - 4 hours ago
Comment by Paul in Kukla's Korner Hockey from the entry NHL GMs Agree To Keep Regular Season OT Format - 5 hours ago