Game Preview and Key Matchups
The Jets kick off a three-game Central Division road trip against the Blues, heightening the stakes before the holidays. Winnipeg's projected lineup features Kyle Connor, Mark Scheifele, and Gabriel Vilardi on the top line, aiming to overpower St. Louis' defense.[5][8]
Blues coach emphasizes returning to playoff-style hockey from last year's series, where they pushed Winnipeg to seven games. Injuries sideline Blues' Jimmy Snuggerud (wrist), Dylan Holloway (ankle), and Nathan Walker (upper-body), testing depth.[2][4]
Jets' Adam Lowry and Gabriel Vilardi lead with 9 points each, while Blues' Colton Parayko anchors a defense posting 4 goals but struggling at -18 plus/minus. Goaltending duel pits Hellebuyck (.928 SV%) against St. Louis' .873 team save percentage.[4]
Player Spotlight and Debuts
Otto Stenberg's NHL debut marks the second of three 2023 first-round picks for Blues to reach the league, injecting youth into a 12-15-7 squad desperate for wins. Jonatan Berggren joins him, bringing AHL experience.[2]
Winnipeg's Kyle Connor remains a goal-scoring threat, highlighted in pre-game props. Jets' penalty kill at 79.0% contrasts Blues' 77.6%, potentially deciding special teams battles.[1][4]
Haydn Fleury (Jets D) is day-to-day with concussion, but core stars like Hellebuyck (4 shutouts) provide stability. Blues seek momentum post-Dvorsky's recent two-goal game.[1][4]
Predictions, Odds and Impact
FOX Sports and others list Jets as -148 to -155 favorites, with over/under around key totals. Winnipeg's road record (7-8-1) faces Blues' home struggles (6-8-4).[1][3]
This game impacts Central Division standings, with both teams needing points to climb. A Jets win extends their edge; Blues victory reignites playoff hopes from last year's series.[2][7]
Live coverage on ESPN, NHL Gamecenter offers highlights, stats, and recaps. Follow for real-time updates on this high-energy rivalry renewal.[1][3][7]