The Winnipeg Jets are in Buffalo tonight for a clash with the Sabres, and both teams are rolling out lineups that reflect a mix of injuries, returns, and some intriguing combinations. Puck drops at 7:30 p.m. ET, and if you're a fan of lineup chess matches, this one's got plenty to watch.
Jets Outlook
Winnipeg enters this one at 13-11-0, and while they've been battling through some injuries, their top line remains intact and dangerous. Kyle Connor, Mark Scheifele, and Gabriel Vilardi will lead the charge up front. That trio brings a blend of speed, scoring touch, and playmaking-and when they’re clicking, they can tilt the ice in a hurry.
The second line is where things get interesting. Jonathan Toews continues to hold down center duties, flanked by Vladislav Namestnikov and Cole Perfetti. Toews brings the veteran presence and two-way stability, while Perfetti's offensive instincts and Namestnikov’s versatility give this line a bit of everything.
Depth-wise, the Jets are leaning on a gritty third line of Nino Niederreiter, Adam Lowry, and Alex Iafallo-three guys who can wear down opponents and chip in on the scoresheet. The fourth line of Tanner Pearson, Morgan Barron, and Gustav Nyquist brings energy and experience, with Nyquist still capable of sneaky offensive contributions.
On the blue line, Josh Morrissey and Dylan DeMelo remain the top pairing. Morrissey continues to be the engine on the back end, playing big minutes and driving the transition game. Dylan Samberg and Luke Schenn form the second pair, while Logan Stanley and Colin Miller round out the third.
In net, Eric Comrie is expected to get the start. With Connor Hellebuyck sidelined due to a knee injury, Comrie’s role becomes even more critical. Thomas Milic is backing up.
Injury Notes for Winnipeg
Neal Pionk, who’s been dealing with a lower-body injury, skated in a regular practice jersey this morning but will miss his fourth straight game. Haydn Fleury remains out with a concussion, and Hellebuyck is still recovering from that knee issue. The Jets are also scratching Elias Salomonsson and Cole Koepke tonight.
Sabres Outlook
Buffalo comes into this matchup at 10-11-4 and is getting a much-needed boost with the return of Josh Norris. He’s expected to slot right back into the top line alongside Zach Benson and Tage Thompson. Norris has been out since the season opener on October 9 with an upper-body injury, so getting him back is a significant development for a team looking to find some rhythm offensively.
The second line features Jason Zucker, Ryan McLeod, and Jack Quinn-a group that brings speed and creativity. Zucker’s shot, McLeod’s speed, and Quinn’s vision make this a line that can do damage if given space.
Buffalo’s third line of Josh Doan, Noah Ostlund, and Alex Tuch is an intriguing mix of youth and power. Tuch, in particular, is a matchup problem with his size and skill. The fourth line-Jordan Greenway, Peyton Krebs, and Beck Malenstyn-adds size and grit, and could be leaned on in defensive zone starts or to shift momentum.
Defensively, the Sabres are rolling with Mattias Samuelsson and Rasmus Dahlin on the top pair. Dahlin continues to be the heartbeat of Buffalo’s blue line, logging big minutes and driving offense from the back end.
Bowen Byram and Conor Timmins form the second pair, while Jacob Bryson and Owen Power round out the third. Power’s development continues to be a storyline to watch-he’s logging solid minutes and showing more confidence with each game.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is expected to start in goal, with Alex Lyon backing him up.
Injury Notes for Buffalo
To activate Norris from injured reserve, Buffalo will need to make a roster move, but that hasn’t been finalized yet. Defenseman Michael Kesselring is still out but has started skating on his own, according to head coach Lindy Ruff. Kesselring has been sidelined since November 17.
This matchup features two teams trying to find consistency amid injuries and lineup shuffles. For Winnipeg, it’s about weathering the storm without Hellebuyck and Pionk.
For Buffalo, the return of Norris could be the spark they’ve been waiting for. Either way, tonight’s game has the potential to be a high-energy, tightly contested battle between two clubs looking to climb the standings.