Jets Hit the Olympic Pause: Moose Stumble in Texas, Prospects Shine, and Goalie Talk Heats Up
While the majority of the Winnipeg Jets are enjoying a breather during the Olympic break, there’s still plenty going on within the organization - from the AHL ranks to the junior pipeline, and even a few names making waves overseas.
Moose Let One Slip in Texas
The Manitoba Moose looked poised to wrap up their two-game series in Texas with a win, heading into the third period with momentum on their side. But as anyone who’s watched enough hockey knows, 40 minutes won’t cut it - and the final 20 can flip the script in a hurry.
A few defensive lapses in the third opened the door for the Texas Stars, who stormed back to edge the Moose 4-3. That one’s going to sting, especially after a strong start.
The loss sends Manitoba into the AHL All-Star break on a sour note - though not everyone’s taking time off. Goaltender Thomas Milic is headed to Rockford to take part in the festivities, a well-earned nod for the young netminder.
Prospect Watch: Kevin He, Kieron Walton, and Garrett Brown Make Their Mark
The Jets’ future was on display across various leagues last night, and there were some standout performances worth highlighting.
In the OHL, Kevin He - Winnipeg’s fourth-round pick in 2024 - continues to find the back of the net. He notched his 27th goal of the season for Flint, opening the scoring in style.
The finish was clean, but the celebration? Let’s just say it had a little extra flair.
He’s not just producing - he’s playing with confidence.
Meanwhile, Kieron Walton (2024, 6th round) is putting up some eye-popping shot totals. He fired eight more pucks on net last night, bringing his season total to a staggering 275 - far and away the most in the OHL.
For context, only two other players have even reached the 200-shot mark, and both have played more games. Walton also picked up an assist on the opening goal for his new team, continuing to show he’s more than just a volume shooter.
Over in the NCAA, Garrett Brown (2022, 4th round) doesn’t usually make headlines with his offense - he’s a stay-at-home defenseman by trade - but he came up big for Denver last night. Brown scored just his second goal of the season, and it proved to be the game-winner. That’s the kind of timely contribution you love to see from a blueliner who takes care of business in his own zone.
Jets at the Olympics: Four Players Set to Represent in Milan
While the NHL hits pause, four Jets players are gearing up for Olympic action in Milan. The puck hasn’t dropped yet - games begin February 12 - but anticipation is building. These international tournaments offer a unique stage, and for the Jets’ representatives, it’s a chance to showcase their game on a global level.
Between the Pipes: Team USA’s Goalie Breakdown
Team USA’s goaltending situation for the Olympics has been a hot topic, and rightfully so - the crease can make or break a medal run. A recent breakdown offered some insight into the trio, including No. 37, who continues to draw praise for his technique, poise, and competitive edge. It’s always fascinating to get a deeper look at how these selections are made and what separates one netminder from another in a high-stakes tournament.
Around the Rink: Toews Rumblings and a Tough Loss Before the Break
Elliotte Friedman’s latest “32 Thoughts” column included a brief mention of Jonathan Toews - specifically, some uncertainty about his future. Whether it’s an extension or a potential trade, it’s clear that discussions are ongoing, though nothing definitive has emerged yet.
As for the Jets, they limped into the Olympic break after a tough 5-1 loss to the Canadiens - a game that dealt a blow to their already faint playoff hopes. The Illegal Curve Hockey Show broke it all down in their latest podcast, covering not just the NHL club but also the AHL Moose and a broader look around the league.
With the Olympic break in full swing, there’s still no shortage of storylines for Jets fans to follow - from prospects lighting it up in junior, to Olympic aspirations, and everything in between. The second half of the season is shaping up to be an intriguing ride.