The Winnipeg Jets have dealt with adversity all season long as it continued into Day One of the Stanley Cup Qualifying Round. The Jets lost both forwards Mark Scheifele and Patrik Laine in Game One. Scheifele was feared to be out for the remainder of the playoffs with a lower-body injury. Both are doubtful for Game Two.
A source tells me tonight that Mark Scheifele's injury is not believed to be long term but he is still doubtful for game 2 Monday afternoon. Patrik Laine is also doubtful. #NHL #TSN
— Sara Orlesky (@saraorlesky) August 3, 2020
Mark Scheifele Injured
Losing Scheifele for a long period of time would be a huge blow to the Jets offence. One could see once the injury happened, the Jets were deflated losing one of their top scorers and leaders. The injury occurred early into the first period. It was a controversial play involving Calgary Flames forward Matthew Tkachuk. Both players went into the boards with Scheifele’s lower body the point of contact. It is unclear what the injury is but it appears Tkachuk’s right skate was in the air going into the hit and landed on the back of Scheifele’s leg. He was unable to put any weight on his leg being helped off the ice and did not return to the game. Results of an MRI done on Sunday have yet to be released.
Patrik Laine Injured
In addition to the Scheifele, the Jets also lost Laine to a wrist injury. The injury occurred during the third period of the game. During an exchange with Flames defenceman Mark Giordano behind the Flames net, the Finn went into the boards hard. He went back to the bench holding his wrist. Laine was looked at by the trainer and headed down the tunnel. He did not finish the game. After seeing a specialist, it was determined that Laine could miss at least Game Two.
Going Forward
This changes everything for the Jets now. Heading into the series, Winnipeg was a favourite because of Scheifele and Laine. Now will both lost due to injury, the series against the Flames could be down sooner than thought. The Jets offence is not the same without these players in it. It was noticeable especially with the Jets had the power-play. Everything runs through Scheifele. Paul Maurice will have to work even more magic to get his team motivated for the rest of the series. Even with Connor Hellebuyck in net, the Jets will need to find offence somewhere.
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