Game five is crucial—no other way to say it. For the Winnipeg Jets, it’s more than just a hockey game; it’s a turning point. With the series tied and momentum slipping away, the Jets face a must-win scenario. Failure to secure a victory means heading back to St. Louis for game six with their backs firmly against the wall—an uncomfortable and dangerous position for any playoff team.
This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Winnipeg. The Jets haven’t seen a successful rebound from a playoff loss since 2019. While history offers some hope, it also brings pressure. With just one more game at home guaranteed, game five is essentially do-or-die for a team trying to rediscover its early-season dominance.
Hellebuyck Under the Microscope
All eyes are on goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. After being pulled in the third period of two consecutive games, the Vezina-caliber netminder admitted to the media that he needs to be better—and quickly. In games three and four, St. Louis exposed the Jets defensively, scoring three goals on three shots at one point. It’s a staggering stat that tells part of the story.
While you can fairly pin several goals directly on Hellebuyck, many others stem from systemic defensive breakdowns. The Jets have allowed the Blues to dictate play, failing to make the necessary in-game adjustments. The once-reliable structure that defined Winnipeg’s 2024–25 regular season has all but vanished under playoff pressure.
Clearing the Net and Owning the Slot
Part of the Jets’ defensive lapse lies in failing to clear the net-front and protect the high-danger areas—what’s often called “the guts of the ice.” Head coach Scott Arniel has emphasized this repeatedly, dating back to a January game against Utah that drew harsh criticism for the team’s soft coverage in those key areas.
Fast forward to now, and the same issues persist. If Winnipeg wants to keep their playoff dreams alive, they must own the slot, block out sticks, and clear second-chance opportunities. A stronger defensive presence in front of Hellebuyck could swing game five in their favor.
Vilardi Returns—But Can He Deliver?
There is a glimmer of hope heading into game five: Gabriel Vilardi is set to return to the lineup for the first time since March 23rd. The Jets’ first line, already potent, gets a significant boost with Vilardi’s return. While Alex Iafallo has filled in admirably, Vilardi’s skill set and chemistry with the top unit are undeniable.
Still, expectations come with pressure. Vilardi needs to not only shake off the rust quickly but also deliver at a high level immediately. He doesn’t need to be perfect, but he must be effective, especially in key offensive moments. His return, if successful, could change the complexion of this series.
Where’s the Secondary Scoring?
Here comes that familiar refrain: secondary scoring is still missing in action. The top line can only carry so much weight. Depth players need to step up and produce. Whether it’s the second line picking up where Iafallo left off or contributions from the bottom six, the Jets cannot afford to rely solely on their stars. One line cannot win a series alone.
The Verdict
The Winnipeg Jets are staring down the barrel of a pivotal moment. Game five isn’t just another chapter—it could be the climax. With Hellebuyck needing redemption, Vilardi returning to the spotlight, and glaring issues on defense and depth scoring, everything is on the line. The margin for error is gone. The Jets need to adapt, execute, and rise to the moment—or risk watching another season slip away in disappointment.
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