Jets Look to Reclaim Momentum Against Blues in Game 5
The Winnipeg Jets return home for a pivotal Game 5 against the St. Louis Blues, hoping to regain control of the series and, more importantly, rediscover the dominant form of goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
Hellebuyck Determined to Bounce Back
After allowing 11 goals on 43 shots across two road losses, Hellebuyck was pulled in both Games 3 and 4, raising serious concerns for the Jets. But the veteran netminder isn’t rattled.
“I am going to be better,” Hellebuyck said. “I’ve studied goaltending extremely hard. I’ve probably studied the most out of anyone in this world, so I know what to do and how to get my best game. So, that’s what I’m looking forward to do.”
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Despite leading the NHL in wins and GAA during the regular season, Hellebuyck’s postseason numbers have dipped drastically. Still, he maintains that no drastic overhaul is necessary.
“You don’t win 47 games and then, come the playoffs, switch everything up,” he added. “That being said, I’m going to be better. That’s my job.”
For bettors considering goalie form and adjustments, reviewing the latest NHL Game Analysis can offer critical insight into Hellebuyck’s potential rebound in Game 5.
Blues Stick With Proven Tactics
The Blues plan to continue pressuring Hellebuyck with volume shooting and net-front traffic. It’s worked well so far, and players like Brayden Schenn know exactly where the goals come from.
“You have to win the net-front battle, you have to go to the net,” Schenn said. “Look league-wide right now how pucks and goals are going in in the playoffs.”
On the defensive end, Jordan Binnington has been quietly stellar. With a 2.29 GAA and a .907 save percentage, Binnington has been the more consistent goaltender in the series and continues to make timely saves for St. Louis.
“When Binner’s on, he has the ability to read the play really well,” Schenn added. “He’s made timely saves, key saves.”
Vilardi Return Bolsters Winnipeg
The Jets could receive a huge lift with the expected return of Gabriel Vilardi. The forward set career highs this season with 27 goals, 34 assists, and 61 points in 71 games and hasn’t played since March 23 due to an upper-body injury.
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St. Louis, however, will be without defenseman Tyler Tucker, who left Game 4 with a right leg injury. Veteran Ryan Suter is expected to step in after being a healthy scratch the past two games.
“He’s a great player, a great defender and we’re lucky to have him,” Colton Parayko said of Tucker. “Just hope everything is OK.”