Jets, Moose, and Olympic Storylines: A Closer Look at Winnipeg’s Busy Weekend on Ice
It was a full slate of action this weekend for Winnipeg hockey fans, with developments across the board-from Olympic ice in Italy to local rinks in Manitoba. Let’s break it down.
Josh Morrissey Skating Again as Canada Eyes Qualifiers
While Josh Morrissey didn’t suit up for Team Canada in their 10-2 rout of France on Sunday, there’s reason for optimism. The Jets blueliner was spotted skating earlier in the day, a clear sign he’s working his way back from injury and inching closer to rejoining the lineup. With Canada heading into the qualifying round, the timing couldn’t be better.
The conversation now turns to how-and when-Canada might reinsert Morrissey. Given the tournament format, the first qualifier could offer a softer landing spot. Canada’s depth allows for a seventh defenseman, and if the matchup favors a more cautious reintroduction, this could be the ideal moment to get him back into game action without overloading his minutes.
Team USA Rolls, But Mixed Bag for Jets Players
Over on the American side, Sunday brought a convincing 5-1 win over Germany, with Connor Hellebuyck standing tall between the pipes. The Jets goaltender turned aside 23 of 24 shots, anchoring a U.S. team that looks increasingly confident as the tournament progresses.
But while Hellebuyck was busy locking things down in net, it was a different story for Kyle Connor, who was a healthy scratch. No injury, just a lineup decision. It’s a surprising move for a player of his caliber, and one that raises questions about how Team USA is managing its forward group heading into the elimination rounds.
Moose Stay Sharp Ahead of Wranglers Rematch
Back in Winnipeg, the Manitoba Moose hit the ice for practice on Sunday, gearing up for a rematch with the Calgary Wranglers. The Moose took the first game in commanding fashion, skating to a 5-1 win on Saturday.
Now, they’ll look to keep the momentum rolling in the second half of the back-to-back this afternoon at Canada Life Centre. Puck drops at 2 PM CST.
This Moose squad has quietly built a reputation for its defensive structure this season, and Saturday’s win was another example of that collective buy-in. Their ability to limit high-danger chances and support their goaltender has been a key ingredient in their recent success.
Owen Martin Shines in WHL Action
Jets prospect Owen Martin had himself a night on Sunday, notching two goals for Spokane in a big win. The 2025 third-rounder out of Oakbank, Manitoba, was named First Star of the Game after opening the scoring and later tying things up in the third period. Performances like this are what you want to see from a young player climbing the development ladder-timely goals, impact moments, and the confidence to take over a game.
Looking Ahead
As the Olympic tournament heads into its most critical stretch, all eyes will be on how players like Morrissey and Connor are deployed. Meanwhile, Hellebuyck’s steady play gives Team USA a real shot at making a deep run. Closer to home, the Moose continue to push forward with a strong team identity, and the pipeline looks promising with prospects like Martin making noise.
Whether it's on the world stage or right here in Winnipeg, the Jets organization has its fingerprints all over the hockey landscape right now.