2016-2017 NHL Team Predictions: Winnipeg Jets

The Winnipeg Jets are next for our Canadian NHL team predictions, before we head out East. Going through a tough transitional year in 2016, the Jets are ready to make a playoff push this upcoming season.

The Jets took a step back last season, but the younger players took a step forward similar to the Montreal Canadiens season. Center Mark Scheifele, who had a terrific second half, was a bright spot showing he can handle the task of being a number one center. 

Along with Mark Scheifele, the Jets will have rookie Patrick Laine making his debut and he already possesses an elite shot and high offensive IQ to be an immediate help up front. Factor that in with the tough steady defensemen, and the Jets should challenge for a playoff spot.

Projected Lineup

Forwards

Laine  Scheifele  Wheeler

Ehlers  Little  Stafford

Connor  Perrault  Burmistrov

Matthias  Lowry  Armia

Petan, Peluso

Defence

Trouba  Byfuglien

Enstrom  Myers

Stuart  Postma

Morrissey

Goalies

Pavelec

Hellebuyck Hutchinson

Prediction: 4th Central 

The Winnipeg Jets are weak in goal but their young core is looking fine, and the Jets are seeking to become a playoff regular team.

Related:

2016-2017 NHL Team Predictions: Calgary Flames
2016-2017 NHL Team Predictions: Edmonton Oilers
2016-2017 NHL Team Predictions: Vancouver Canucks