Stanley Cup Playoffs: Jets Secure Notable Reinforcement for Match 6 versus Blues
Stanley Cup Playoffs: Jets Look to Seal Series Against Blues with Ehlers' Return
The Winnipeg Jets are on the brink of a major victory in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, leading the St. Louis Blues 3-2 in the first-round series. However, the Jets face challenges, with key player Connor Hellebucyk's shaky performance and the absence of Mark Scheifele due to a few controversial hits. But the tide could turn with the return of Nikolaj Ehlers from injury.
Scheifele, the center with 6 points (2G, 4A) in the series, is out after being injured in Game 5. Blues captain Brayden Schenn was involved in the hit that sparked the controversy, though St. Louis coach Jim Montgomery claimed another hit by Radek Faksa had injured Scheifele earlier [1][3]. Jets coach Scott Arniel challenged Montgomery's assessment, questioning the hit's legality and the referees' decision to only issue a minor penalty [2][3]. Scheifele is listed as day-to-day [1][3].
Meanwhile, Ehlers—typically a top-six forward for the Jets—has been out since re-injuring his foot on April 12 against the Chicago Blackhawks [1]. His absence has been felt, but he's returning just in time to help the team secure a playoff series win for the first time since 2021 [1][3].
In the regular season, Ehlers scored 24 goals in 69 games. While his performance in the playoffs hasn't been as impressive, with only 4 goals in 37 games, his return could be the spark the Jets need [1]. His offensive speed and playmaking ability could bolster Winnipeg's depth, potentially counterbalancing Scheifele's absence [1][3].
Moreover, the Blues have given the Jets trouble in their home arena. Winnipeg has lost both games in St. Louis after a 2-0 lead, and Hellebuyck has struggled [1][3]. Ehlers' return might help resolve Hellebuyck's issues, as his presence could provide a much-needed offensive boost.
Remember, the Jets are playing in a contract year, and Ehlers is no exception. As a small-market team, the Jets may not be able to keep him this offseason, and many teams hungry for scoring will be vying for his services [1][3].
Sources:
[1] ESPN. (2025). Winnipeg Jets vs. St. Louis Blues Game 6 preview. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/35844700
[2] TSN. (2025). Jets' Scott Arniel, Jim Montgomery trade barbs over Mark Scheifele injury. Retrieved from https://www.tsn.ca/jets-scott-arniel-jim-montgomery-trade-barbs-over-mark-scheifele-injury-1.1630855.html
[3] NHL.com. (2025). Blues vs. Jets: Game 6 preview. Retrieved from https://www.nhl.com/news/blues-vs-jets-game-6-preview/c-331987016
- The Jets' odds of securing a playoff series win against the Blues might improve with Nikolaj Ehlers' return, given his offensive speed and playmaking ability.
- Vladislav Ehlers, who notched 24 goals in the regular season, has been out since reinjuring his foot on April 12, but he's set to return in time for the critical Game 6.
- In American football terminology, the Jets could be betting on Ehlers to help them seal the series, given his potential to counterbalance Scheifele's absence and potentially resolve Hellebuyck's performance issues.
- Ehlers' performance in the playoffs may not have been as impressive as in the regular season, where he scored 4 goals in 37 games, but his return is crucial for the Jets in the playoffs.
- If the Jets manage to win the series, it would mark their first playoff series win since 2021, a significant achievement in the NFL's fast-paced world of American football.
- The Jets must make the most of Ehlers' return, as he is a key player who may attract interest from other teams during the offseason.
