Vladislav Namestnikov Takes Puck to the Face During Jets Practice at Bell Centre
A tough moment unfolded during pregame drills at the Bell Centre, as Winnipeg Jets forward Vladislav Namestnikov took an unfortunate puck to the face during a power play session ahead of the team's matchup with the Montreal Canadiens.
The incident happened during a routine drill when the puck rode up unexpectedly and struck Namestnikov. Trainers rushed to his side immediately, towels in hand, and he made his way off the ice and into the locker room under his own power. No further updates were available at the time regarding his status for the game.
It’s a concerning moment for the Jets, who rely on Namestnikov as a steady presence down the middle. The 33-year-old centerman typically anchors the second line alongside Jonathan Toews and Cole Perfetti, and while his offensive numbers this season have been modest-eight points through 25 games-his value goes beyond the scoresheet. Namestnikov brings experience, defensive awareness, and versatility, traits that have earned him consistent minutes in key situations.
A former first-round pick (27th overall) by the Tampa Bay Lightning back in 2011, Namestnikov has carved out a solid NHL career. He’s logged over 800 games, tallied 344 career points, and has been a reliable contributor for several teams over the years. His recent seasons saw him put up 38 and 37 points respectively, and he remains under contract through 2027 with a $3 million annual cap hit.
For a Jets team that’s been finding its rhythm, losing a veteran like Namestnikov-even temporarily-would be a blow. His chemistry with linemates and ability to play in all situations makes him a key piece of Winnipeg’s forward group.
As of now, his availability for tonight's game remains uncertain. The team will likely wait until closer to puck drop to make a final decision, depending on how he responds to treatment.
We’ll continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they come. For now, all eyes are on Namestnikov’s recovery and whether he’ll be able to rejoin the lineup in short order.