Cole Perfetti Returns as Jets Face Tough Ducks Challenge

ANAHEIM, California — Cole Perfetti is set to make his anticipated return to the Winnipeg Jets lineup on Sunday night after recovering from an injury sustained in the preseason finale against Calgary. “It’s been a bit of a grind. Obviously, with injuries, you never want them to happen, especially at the start of the year,” said Perfetti. “I’m just super excited to be back with the guys and finally be able to play a game.”

The game takes place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, the same venue where the 23-year-old made his NHL debut in October 2021. Perfetti scored 18 goals and achieved a career-high 50 points last season, making him a vital part of Winnipeg’s offensive unit. Head coach Scott Arniel expressed his excitement: “He’s a player that’s been here and adds another offensive element for us – both on the power play and five-on-five. It’s good to have him back.”

Perfetti will play alongside seasoned teammates Vladislav Namestnikov and Jonathan Toews, enhancing the team’s offensive synergy. “The familiarity is there, and we’re comfortable with one another,” Perfetti noted, highlighting the importance of teamwork against the Ducks.

The Jets enter the matchup after dropping the first two games of their road trip, including a narrow 2-1 loss to the San Jose Sharks. The Anaheim Ducks currently sit at the top of the Pacific Division with a record of 10-3-1 after a recent 4-3 overtime victory against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Despite their challenging schedule, Jets defenseman Haydn Fleury cautioned that the back-to-back situation for the Ducks may not work to their advantage. “They’re a young team. I don’t know if back-to-backs even faze some of those guys yet,” Fleury said, emphasizing the need for the Jets to bring their best energy for the entire game.

Jets players know they must leverage their strong start in games, as they have outscored opponents 14-6 in the first period of play this season, with the latter number being the fewest goals allowed in the NHL. Fleury remarked, “We have to be the suffocating team we can. Bring some energy.”

Looking ahead to the match, the Ducks have shown formidable offensive prowess, with Leo Carlsson leading the charge. Carlsson ranks second in league scoring and extended his point streak to nine games in the last outing. Arniel remarked on the challenge of facing a team with high-scoring capabilities, stating, “We know they can score goals.”

With puck drop set for 9:00 PM CT, both teams are eager to secure a victory in what promises to be an intense matchup.