Key Injuries and Absences
The Winnipeg Jets will be without several key players to start the 2025-26 NHL season. Top-line center Mark Scheifele and defenseman Dylan Samberg are both sidelined with injuries, while forward Cole Perfetti is still recovering from offseason surgery. Additionally, veteran forward Adam Lowry will miss the opener against the Dallas Stars.
Notably, the Jets will welcome back captain Jonathan Toews, who is making his return to the NHL after sitting out the previous two seasons due to long COVID-19. Toews' comeback will be a major storyline as he rejoins his hometown team.
Projected Opening Night Lineup
Despite the absences, the Jets are expected to ice a competitive roster for their season opener against the Stars. The team's top line is projected to feature Kyle Connor, Vladislav Namestnikov, and Nikita Chibrikov.
On the back end, Josh Morrissey and Neal Pionk will anchor the top defensive pairing, while newcomers Luke Schenn and Cole Koepke will also play prominent roles.
In goal, the Jets will rely on reigning Vezina Trophy winner Connor Hellebuyck to keep them in games as the roster adjusts to the early-season injuries.
TL;DR
- The Winnipeg Jets will be without several key players, including Mark Scheifele and Cole Perfetti, to start the 2025-26 season
- However, the team will welcome back captain Jonathan Toews, who is making his return to the NHL after a two-year absence
- The Jets are expected to ice a competitive roster for their season opener against the Dallas Stars, led by Kyle Connor, Vladislav Namestnikov, and Connor Hellebuyck