WINNIPEG, Manitoba — In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, Gabriel Vilardi netted the only goal, and Connor Hellebuyck delivered an impressive performance with 35 saves, leading the Winnipeg Jets to a narrow 1-0 victory over the Colorado Avalanche. This win marks the Jets’ fifth consecutive triumph after previously halting an eight-game win streak to start the season. Hellebuyck’s standout performance earned him his third shutout this season and the 40th of his career, showcasing his skills in front of the net.

Vilardi wasted no time, putting the Jets on the scoreboard just 1:06 into the game. Following this early lead, Winnipeg struggled to extend their advantage despite several scoring opportunities, as Avalanche goaltender Alexandar Georgiev was solid for the remainder of the match. Hellebuyck stood firm, making nine saves in each of the first two periods and a remarkable 17 in the third.

This contest marked the first meeting of the teams since the Avalanche eliminated the Jets in five games during last spring’s playoffs. The Avalanche sought to regroup after falling behind early. After allowing Vilardi’s goal, they fought back and created numerous chances; however, they were often thwarted by Hellebuyck’s brilliant goaltending or missed the target entirely.

A key moment in the game occurred midway through the second period when Hellebuyck, showing exceptional agility, thwarted multiple aggressive attempts from the Avalanche, even while on his knees. His resilience during this critical stretch helped maintain the Jets’ lead.

Despite outshooting the Jets 17-4 in the final period and a total of 35-28 shots overall throughout the match, Colorado couldn’t find the back of the net. They’ll look to turn the tide as they prepare to host the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday, kicking off a four-game homestand. The Jets, on the other hand, will try to build on their momentum as they welcome the Dallas Stars, concluding their own four-game stretch at home.