Jets and Canucks Clash in Crucial Playoff Preview

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The Winnipeg Jets face the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday, a matchup pivotal for both teams’ playoff standings as the NHL regular season nears its end.

Jets head coach Scott Arniel described the Canucks as “desperate” in their fight for postseason positioning. “They’re going to be coming hard. I like it. It keeps us sharp, too,” he said. The Jets are currently leading the Western Conference, while the Canucks are vying for a wild-card spot.

The stakes are high for both teams. With only a handful of games remaining in the season, the Jets aim to solidify their position as top contenders. In their last encounter, Winnipeg dominated Vancouver with a 6-1 victory back in January. The two teams could potentially meet again in the playoffs.

Entering this game, the Jets have won their last three matches and are just two points ahead of the Washington Capitals, who are also vying for the top overall seed. Kyle Connor, one of the hottest players for the Jets with three goals in his last two games, is approaching his 600th career NHL game.

Arniel praised Connor’s development into a two-way player, noting, “That’s been the biggest part for us… it’s his battling to get back, it’s what he does on the P.K. He wants to be a complete player.” Connor currently leads the Jets with 36 goals and 85 points this season.

The Canucks, meanwhile, come off a disappointing 3-1 loss to the Utah team, creating a sense of urgency as they remain in a tight race for the playoff. Three teams, including St. Louis and Calgary, are trailing closely behind, further intensifying the competitive atmosphere. Facing the high-flying Jets will be a tough test for them.

This matchup also holds significance as it could outline potential playoff matchups. Although any team within playoff contention may shift positions in the standings, key matchups in upcoming weeks will determine final placements, including a possible first-round series.

As the clock ticks down to the regular season finale on April 17, the intensity continues to build, offering both chances for clinching and challenges for elimination. Additionally, as the playoff picture clarifies, teams will not only be competing for positions but also focusing on setting the stage for the 2025 NHL draft lottery.