Jets Likely to Start Round 2 without Morrissey, Scheifele; Stars Await Robertson, Heiskanen
In a setback for the Winnipeg Jets, defenceman Josh Morrissey and centre Mark Scheifele are unlikely to suit up for Game 1 of the Western Conference Semi-finals against the Dallas Stars. The duo is still nursing injuries sustained during the Winnipeg’s tense, Game 7 victory over the St. Louis Blues.
Injury Updates
Morrissey, the Jets’ top defenceman, hasn’t practiced with the team since getting injured early in Sunday’s overtime win. While he’s been skating before sessions, his status for Wednesday’s game is uncertain. Scheifele, meanwhile, practiced Tuesday but was donning a yellow ‘no-touch’ sweater, suggesting he’s doubtful for Game 1.
“It’s a good sign to see them out there and participating,” said head coach Scott Arniel diplomaticly, refusing to reveal more on the situation. “We’ll see where they’re at… they’ve got to wake up tomorrow and see if they’ve improved from today.”
The Jets have also lost defenceman Logan Stanley, who missed Game 7 and Tuesday’s practice. Colin Miller is expected to slot in for his first game since the Blues series.
Stars’ Injury Woes
The Dallas Stars, too, are managing injuries. Forward Jason Robertson and defenceman Miro Heiskanen have missed time, with Robertson more likely to return for Game 1. The Jets have dealt with absences before, starting the playoffs without forwards Gabe Vilardi and Nik Ehlers.
“Rallying Point”
The Jets have previously rallied around injuries, with teammates stepping up in Morrissey’s absence during Game 7. Defenceman Neal Pionk reflects, “It’s a rallying point, right? You see a player like Josh go down, who’s been huge for us, one of our best players, it’s a rallying cry in the locker room. Like, ‘Let’s do this for him. Let’s do this for these guys.’ That’s where we took the motivation.” Dylan Samberg, another defenceman, agreed, “There’s not much you can do in situations like that. We had a lot of our other defencemen step up, which was great to see.”
Series Schedule
Game 2 is set for Friday, with the best-of-seven series shifting to Texas for Games 3 and 4.
FAQs
Q: Who are the Jets’ top scorers in the playoffs?
A: Kyle Connor and Pierre-Luc Dubois lead the team with six points each.
Q: How have the Stars performed so far in the playoffs?
A: The Stars defeated the Minnesota Wild in six games in the first round.
Did you know?
Despite their injuries, the Jets have shown resilience, sweeping the Calgary Flames in the first round and overcoming the Blues in seven games.
**Jets and Stars injury updates highlight contrasting playoff approaches
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To learn more about the Jets’ injury situation and how their opponents are coping, check out the rest of our coverage.