The Winnipeg Jets are set to clash with the San Jose Sharks at the Canada Life Centre on Monday, February 24, as they seek to extend their remarkable winning streak to ten games and claim the top spot overall in the NHL standings. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET, with fans able to catch the action on NHL Network, along with various streaming options.
The Jets enter this matchup riding high on the momentum from their last victory — a thrilling 4-3 shootout win against the St. Louis Blues last Saturday, which also marked their franchise's ninth consecutive win. Led by center Gabriel Vilardi, who netted two goals during the game, the Jets have positioned themselves strongly with a record of 40 wins, 14 losses, and 3 overtime losses (40-14-3) for the current season.
“Guys are feeling great. They’re still building their game up... it’s kind of like a reset,” said Kyle Connor, who recovered from his appearances at the 4 Nations tournament, showcasing the team’s focus on improvement and maintaining their recent success. Connor, who scored the decisive shootout winner against the Blues, has become integral to the Jets’ offense, contributing significantly during this winning streak.
On the flip side, the San Jose Sharks have struggled throughout the season and will attempt to halt their current losing streak, having dropped five confirming games and entering the matchup with just 15 wins against 36 losses and 7 overtime losses (15-36-7). The Sharks will rely heavily on star forward Mikael Granlund, who leads the team in points and assists. San Jose's overall challenges this season are underscored by their inability to keep pace with stronger opponents, and they will look to turn the tide against the top-ranking Jets.
The Jets have been dominant this season, establishing themselves as one of the league’s best teams, but they will not take the lowly Sharks lightly. The historical performance metrics paint the Sharks as one of the league's weaker teams, as they are ranked second-worst for shots allowed per game and have been unable to close out games effectively.
“It was an unbelievable experience... I want to do it again,” said Sharks’ Josh Morrissey, who returned to the Jets lineup after participating in the 4 Nations tournament, detailing the competitive nature of international play and its influence on his current gameplay. His return to the roster will bolster the Jets' defense as they prepare to take on San Jose.
For viewers at home, the matchup between the Jets and the Sharks offers not just entertainment but also insights on player performance, strategy, and team dynamics. With the Jets having previously defeated the Sharks twice this season, they will aim to complete the season sweep and solidify their position as front runners for the Stanley Cup.
Given the stakes, this match is not just about two teams facing off; it’s about playoff positioning, momentum building, and history making.
Fans have various viewing options, including live streaming through DirecTV Stream and FuboTV, both offering free trials, or taking advantage of Sling's initial-month discount for new users.
With all eyes on the ice, the showdown promises to deliver excitement and possibly witness history if the Jets can secure their tenth consecutive win.