The upcoming game between the Winnipeg Jets and the Pittsburgh Penguins is anticipated to witness the return of key players, providing a boost to both teams after the All-Star break. The Jets, who are currently on a three-game losing streak while competing for the Central Division title, are poised to have Mark Scheifele back in action following recovery from a lower-body injury. Additionally, Sean Monahan is set to make his debut for Winnipeg. Scheifele and Monahan are expected to fill the roles of the top two centers for the Jets in the Tuesday matchup. Scheifele, leading the Jets with 41 points and sharing the third spot with 14 goals, expressed readiness for the game after a break. Scheifele, absent in the last six games, acknowledged the positive timing of the break for rest and recovery. Coach Rick Bowness highlighted the significance of Scheifele’s return, emphasizing the impact of his absence on the team’s performance, with Winnipeg registering a 2-3-1 record during that period.
Sean Monahan, acquired by the Winnipeg Jets in a trade with the Montreal Canadiens during the break, is set to make a substantial impact. The trade involved the Jets giving up a 2024 first-round draft pick and a 2027 conditional third-round draft pick. Monahan, expected to center Nikolaj Ehlers and Cole Perfetti, has been practicing with indications that he and Mark Scheifele will be featured on the top power-play unit. During his time with Montreal, Monahan amassed 13 goals and 22 assists in 49 games. Coach Rick Bowness emphasized the team’s intention to integrate Monahan actively, providing him significant minutes and opportunities to contribute to the team’s success.
