GM #15: Winnipeg Jets @ Anaheim Ducks

The Winnipeg Jets have faced difficulties on their west coast road trip, losing their first two games against the LA Kings and San Jose Sharks. In these games, they managed to score only one goal against opposing goalies. This slump has affected the team's overall performance this season.

As a result, the True North franchise's record has fallen to 9-5-0 at the start of the NHL 2025-26 season. Injuries have disrupted head coach Scott Arniel's plans from the beginning, and the team has not played nearly as well as during their President’s Trophy-winning campaign.

While the overall record isn't terrible compared to last year's start (18 points now versus 26 points last year), the underlying analytics raise concerns, especially when reviewing 5-on-5 play—a critical factor often indicating playoff success.

Statistical Comparison

Here’s a comparison of the Jets' performance over the last two seasons:

Despite dropping six spots in the overall rankings, Winnipeg is projected to score only six fewer 5-on-5 goals than last year (170 last season vs. 164 projected this season).
Their Goals For per Game rate remains nearly the same.

"The overall record isn’t that bad comparably, considering we never really expected the Jets to break out to another 13-1-0 start."

However, the data suggests challenges ahead for the team if they want to match or surpass last season's achievements.

Author’s Summary

The Winnipeg Jets are currently underperforming due to injuries and tougher competition, showing signs that their recent success may be harder to repeat this season.

Would you like the summary tone to be more optimistic or neutral?

Arctic Ice Hockey — 2025-11-09