In Winnipeg, Manitoba, Connor Hellebuyck displayed a strong performance by saving 23 shots, while Kyle Connor added a goal and an assist, leading the NHL’s front-runner, the Winnipeg Jets, to a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday. This win marked the Jets’ third consecutive triumph.
Mason Appleton was crucial in securing the lead for the Jets, scoring at 6:24 in the third period. Later, Cole Perfetti solidified the win with another goal, leaving 7:49 on the clock.
Vancouver’s Pius Suter had initially put the Canucks on the scoreboard with a goal just 1:55 before the end of the first period. Kyle Connor stepped up in the second period, ensuring the score was tied with his remarkable 38th goal of the season at 9:26. Thatcher Demko, the netminder for Vancouver, made 24 saves throughout the game.
The Canucks faced a setback in their quest for a wild-card position, ending their six-game tour with a 2-2-2 record. As for the Jets, they hold a significant lead in the NHL standings at 51-19-4. They maintain a three-point advantage over the Washington Capitals in the Eastern Conference and a six-point lead ahead of the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference, boasting an impressive 28-6-4 home record.
A pivotal moment of the game occurred when Appleton untied the score in the third period, capitalizing on a rebound from close range. Additionally, Kyle Connor’s achievement of reaching 90 points for the season was noteworthy, highlighting his exceptional performance, which is only three points shy of his career record.
Looking ahead, the Canucks are set to host the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, the Jets will embark on a three-game trip, beginning with a match against the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night.