Three Winnipeg Jets Under Scrutiny in 2024-25
The Winnipeg Jets are set to face intense scrutiny in the 2024-25 season as they begin their journey under new head coach Scott Arniel. Following a 52-win season and a second consecutive first-round playoff exit, the spotlight will be on several key players. Here’s a look at three Jets who will be particularly under the microscope this season:
1. Cole Perfetti
Cole Perfetti’s performance will be closely watched to determine if he can recapture the form he showed in the first half of the 2023-24 season or if he will struggle as he did in the second half.
The 2020 10th-overall pick had a promising start, contributing significantly with 29 points in 41 games, but a prolonged goal-scoring drought saw him demoted to the fourth line and even benched.
Despite this, he finished the season on a positive note with seven points in the final 10 games. As a restricted free agent, Perfetti aims to be more consistent and prove his worth as a top-six forward under Arniel’s guidance. He is also a potential candidate for the second-line center position vacated by Sean Monahan.
2. Neal Pionk
Neal Pionk’s defensive performance will be under heavy scrutiny. Despite being a mainstay on the Jets’ second pairing, his defensive play has declined since signing a four-year extension in 2021.
His struggles with high-danger chances have drawn criticism, and he has not replicated the form he showed in his first two seasons with the Jets.
Entering the final year of his contract, Pionk will need to significantly improve to avoid being replaced by Colin Miller, who has a strong defensive track record and is eager to secure a spot in the top four.
3. Eric Comrie/Kaapo Kahkonen
The battle for the backup goaltender position between Eric Comrie and Kaapo Kahkonen will be a focal point. Following the departure of Laurent Brossoit, who was one of the NHL’s best backups last season, Comrie and Kahkonen will be compared to his performance.
Comrie struggled during his recent stint with the Sabres, while Kahkonen had a tough season with the Sharks and Devils.
The winner of this competition will not only be compared to Brossoit but also to the goalie they beat for the backup role, with potential calls for change if either struggles.
These players will be essential to the Jets’ success this season and will need to step up to meet the high expectations from the new coaching staff, the media, and the fans.
