The Winnipeg Jets pulled off a thrilling comeback for the ages, defeating the St. Louis Blues 4-3 in double overtime during Game 7 of their first-round playoff series on May 5, 2025. The victory not only marked a significant milestone for the franchise but also showcased the resilience and determination of the Jets as they advanced to the second round of the NHL playoffs.
With the odds stacked against them, the Jets found themselves trailing 3-1 late in the third period. However, the team refused to back down. Vladislav Namestnikov ignited the comeback with a crucial goal, scoring with just 1:56 left on the clock. His shot deflected off Blues defenseman Ryan Suter and into the net, bringing the Jets within one.
Then, in a moment that will be etched in playoff history, Cole Perfetti tied the game with an incredible goal just three seconds before the final buzzer. Perfetti redirected a shot from Kyle Connor, sending the puck past Blues goalie Jordan Binnington and sending the 15,225 fans at Canada Life Centre into a frenzy. This goal marked the latest game-tying goal in Game 7 history, showcasing the young forward's poise under pressure.
As the game progressed into overtime, the first period was relatively uneventful, with both teams exchanging chances but unable to capitalize. The Jets outshot the Blues 11-4 in the first overtime, but Binnington stood tall, making several key saves to keep the Blues alive.
It was in the second overtime that the Jets finally broke through. Adam Lowry, the Jets' captain, deflected a point shot from Neal Pionk 16:10 into the period, sealing the victory for Winnipeg. The goal sent the Jets into jubilant celebration as they completed their remarkable comeback.
Throughout the game, Connor Hellebuyck, the Jets' goaltender, faced 29 shots and made 26 saves, showcasing his ability to step up when it mattered most. Despite allowing two goals on the first four shots he faced, Hellebuyck rebounded to help his team secure the win, silencing critics who had questioned his performance during the series.
The Jets' victory was made even more impressive considering they were without their star center Mark Scheifele, who missed the game due to an upper-body injury. Additionally, top defenseman Josh Morrissey left the game early in the first period after sustaining a shoulder injury, leaving the Jets to rely on their depth and teamwork to secure the win.
The Blues had their moments, scoring early in the first period with Jordan Kyrou finding the back of the net just 1:10 into the game. Mathieu Joseph doubled the lead at 7:16 of the first, capitalizing on a turnover by the Jets. Radek Faksa added a third goal for St. Louis with just 34.1 seconds remaining in the second period, seemingly putting the game out of reach for Winnipeg.
However, the Jets' determination shone through as they rallied in the final moments of regulation. Perfetti's late goal sent the game into overtime, where the Jets' tenacity continued to shine. The comeback not only highlights the skill of the Jets but also reflects the character of a team that has faced adversity throughout the season.
This victory is particularly meaningful for the Jets franchise, who had suffered consecutive first-round exits in the previous two seasons. The win against the Blues serves as a testament to their growth and resilience as a team, setting the stage for a promising second round.
Next up for the Jets is a matchup against the Dallas Stars, with Game 1 set for Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 9:30 p.m. ET. The Jets will need to prepare for a tough battle against a formidable opponent, especially as they navigate the playoffs without key players like Scheifele and Morrissey.
As the Jets celebrate their hard-fought victory, they are reminded that the journey is far from over. With the taste of success fresh in their mouths, the team looks to build on this momentum as they aim for the ultimate prize in the Stanley Cup playoffs.
