Jets Look to Extend Playoff Lead Against Blues in Game 2

WINNIPEG, Canada — The Winnipeg Jets are set to face off against the St. Louis Blues in Game 2 of their best-of-seven playoff series on Monday, April 21, 2025, after taking a 5-3 victory in the series opener. With a home-ice advantage at Canada Life Centre, the Jets look to build on their early success in the postseason.

“Every game is a different beast, so you’ve got to be ready for everything,” said Jets forward Mark Scheifele. The Jets have previously won three out of their last four Game 1s but aim to improve on their second playoff game performances from the prior two seasons, where they failed to secure a Game 2 victory.

Despite the crowd’s excitement at Saturday’s game, players reported dealing with nerves, especially in the opening period. “It’s obviously an exciting time, and the fans were into it,” said Dylan Samberg, reflecting on his playoff debut. “We got more comfortable and started playing our game.”

Head coach Scott Arniel praised the team’s ability to return to form in the critical third period. “You can’t get to this time of year and all of a sudden decide you’re gonna play a different way,” Arniel said. “We need to play that way, and we’ll have success when doing it.”

As the Jets prepare for their morning skate at 9:30 CT, they appear set to stick with the same lineup that led to their Game 1 victory. The team is also focusing on improving their penalty kill, after allowing two power-play goals to the Blues. “We got a little bit too aggressive and kind of left some openings,” Arniel noted about their defensive adjustments.

For the Jets to maintain their 1-0 series lead, scoring first in Game 2 will be crucial. In Game 1, the Blues’ Robert Thomas opened the scoring with a power-play goal early on, which shifted momentum in their favor.

“The first goal is important, and whichever team scores it will have a significant edge,” said Inside The Rink’s Conrad Jack, who analyzed the physicality expected in the rematch. With over 100 penalty minutes assigned in the first game, discipline will be pivotal in Game 2.

Winnipeg’s depth has allowed them to thrive despite missing key players like Nikolaj Ehlers and Gabe Vilardi. Newly acquired Jaret Anderson-Dolan scored his first playoff goal in the opener, a moment he described as a childhood dream. “It’s obviously a crazy environment,” Anderson-Dolan said, reflecting on the home crowd support.

While Vilardi skated in a yellow non-contact jersey on Sunday, Arniel was cautious about providing updates on his return timeline. “It’s great to see him out there,” said teammate Alex Iafallo. “It’s going to be big to have him back.”

As the series progresses, both teams will need to adjust strategically to maintain discipline and capitalize on scoring chances. The next clash is set for Thursday, April 24, at 8:30 pm CST.