Mitch Kasprick is now the “Westdale Curmudgeon.”
Odds and Ends, Thoughts, and Questions from this past week in Hockey –
Just so there’s no confusion when I’m spewing my bias, I am a fan of the Winnipeg Jets, Manitoba Moose, and all Team Canada Hockey teams.
I am NOT a fan of Gary Bettman, or as I call him, Count Chocula. I am a big believer in the 7Ps, or is it the 8Ps? You’ve been warned.
1. Jets: After losing their season opener 5-4 to the Dallas Stars, the Winnipeg Jets bounced back with a solid 3-2 win versus the LA Kings on home ice and a 5-2 victory against the NY Islanders in Long Island. The boys have started the season 2-1-0, but do not look like the 2024-25 “President Trophy winners quite yet. I think it’s safe to say that injuries and a few new players have a significant impact on that.
2. Jets: The Jets’ opening day roster will consist of 14 forwards, seven defencemen, and two goalies. Ville Heinola, David Gustafsson, and Walker Duehr were placed on waivers, cleared waivers, and sent to the Manitoba Moose. With four regulars out of the lineup, I’m not sure how long coach Scott Arniel will have to wait until he has all hands on deck.
3. Jets Injury Update: Add Hayden Fleury to the walking wounded list.
4. Jets: It’s only been three games, but I must admit I’ve been fairly impressed with the play of newcomers, Gus Nyquist, Tanner Pearson, Cole Koepke, and Jonathon Toews. I hope I feel the same way at the 10, 20, and 30-game mark. Each of these players brings something different to the table and collectively should help this team once they get comfortable. I may have to eat my words, but that’s okay with me as I’m a fan first and a critic second.
5. Jets: The big news since last time we talked was the team agreeing to terms with Kyle Connor on an eight-year contract extension with an AAV of $12,000,000. That is a lot of Do-Re-Me. The Jets also signed Nikita Chibrikov to a two-year contract extension with an AAV of $875,000, playing in the NHL. Next season, he’s on a one-way deal.
6. Jets: Pet Peeve: PLEASE HOLD ON TO YOUR F’N STICKS!!!!!!
The Jets have only played three games, but in every game, one of their players has lost their stick while killing a penalty, the absolute worst time. C’mon boys, it isn’t that hard.
7. Jets: I have been slowly losing my faith in Dylan DeMelo the past couple of seasons. His lack of speed is causing him to get caught out of position more, leading to breakdowns and penalties. I still think he can be an effective player, but he needs to get away from the tougher minutes. Unfortunately, there isn’t a better option there. This team is one big, right-handed, top-six defenceman away from being a legit contender. I said it last season, and I’ll say it again; this team’s blueline isn’t good enough for prime time.
8. Jets: I haven’t heard that narrative for some time that Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor shouldn’t play together. (insert crickets)
