When Scott Arniel assumed the role of head coach for the Winnipeg Jets last summer, following the retirement of Rick Bowness, the players had a specific expectation.
“We expressed a desire for him to treat us as an elite team, and to coach us accordingly,” said defenseman Josh Morrissey.
So far, they are seeing the results of that request.
The Jets have achieved an impressive seven-game winning streak, positioning themselves at the top of the NHL standings after 55 games, ahead of the league’s Thursday slate.
Their success doesn’t hinge solely on the standout performance of goalie Connor Hellebuyck.
The Jets lead the league in scoring and boast the best power play while also allowing the fewest goals against per game, showcasing a strong foundational play and disciplined structure.
“We’re not one-dimensional,” Arniel remarked recently in Washington.
“Our defensive play mirrors what we accomplished last year, effectively limiting room for opponents.
Our offensive capabilities shine through, with our top-ranked power play and robust 5-on-5 performance contributing significantly to our victories.”
On the roster, Winnipeg benefits from having two of the top five goal-scorers in the league: Mark Scheifele trails closely behind with 31 goals, while Kyle Connor has netted 30.
Morrissey ranks high among defensemen in total points and is once again in contention for the Norris Trophy.
Hellebuyck also stands out, holding a record of 33 wins, just two shy of tying the single-season victory record shared by Braden Holtby and Martin Brodeur, with a remarkable 2.04 goals-against average and .925 save percentage.
“Having a player of his caliber is a tremendous advantage,” Arniel shared.
“His presence simplifies the game.
Watching him practice and play, it’s clear he is a keen student of the game, always aware of his surroundings and adept at anticipating plays.”
Arniel’s guidance plays a crucial role in the Jets’ performance.
Previously, he served as an associate coach under Bowness for two seasons.
His current stint represents his second time as an NHL head coach, having led the Columbus Blue Jackets for a season and a half between 2010 and 2012.
Demonstrating a deft touch, he has steered a roster of experienced players focused on winning now.
“He is a very demanding coach who aligns our objectives,” stated winger Vladislav Namestnikov, who has accumulated eight points during their recent winning streak.
“Every game we play together strengthens our bond, and he plays a key role in that unity.”
While Bowness’s passionate demeanor undoubtedly energized the team and led them to the Stanley Cup Final in the 2020 playoffs, Arniel has brought a new tone to a team that has often excelled during regular seasons but struggled to make deep playoff runs.
“As a coach, his calmness has positively impacted us,” Morrissey noted.
“Having worked alongside him previously, we’ve established a good rapport, making our collaboration smoother.”
Despite the advantage of familiarity, midseason coaching changes have not always led to postseason success; the last time an assistant coach was elevated to head coach and won the Cup was in Edmonton in 1987.
Nevertheless, Arniel has strategically chosen moments to challenge his players, especially following consecutive losses to Calgary and Utah in January, after which the team has not faltered.
“That’s the benchmark he’s set for us, and we collectively strive to meet that expectation,” Morrissey commented.
“Every day, we’re committed to being the best team possible and improving individually, and his guidance has played a crucial role in our achievements thus far.”
However, the term “thus far” holds significant weight for the Jets, who have never advanced to the Cup final since relocating to Winnipeg in 2011 after a turbulent period in Atlanta.
Their last appearance past the second round was in 2018 when they were eliminated by the expansion Vegas team in the Western Conference Final.
Success during the regular season does not guarantee triumph in the playoffs, given the fierce nature of postseason hockey and the unpredictable influence of matchups and injuries.
Nonetheless, Arniel is preparing the Jets to embark on a sustained playoff run when the time comes.
“It’s essential to cultivate a hockey style conducive to playoff success,” Arniel explained.
“We’re currently laying the groundwork for this.
Moreover, it’s critical to embody a competitive mindset, recognizing that playoff success isn’t an on-and-off switch.
Excelling throughout the 82-game season builds the confidence needed to secure victories in the playoffs based on our performance.”
