Winnipeg Jets goalie Eric Comrie blocks a shot from the Carolina Hurricanes during the second period of Tuesday night’s game in Winnipeg. As Comrie makes the save, Jets’ Nino Niederreiter defends against Hurricanes forward Jordan Martinook. The game took place on February 4, 2025. (Photo: The Canadian Press/Fred Greenslade)
WINNIPEG – Eric Comrie finally had his moment to shine on Tuesday night. The Winnipeg Jets' backup goalie delivered a stellar performance, stopping 29 shots for his first shutout of the season as the Jets defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 3-0. The victory extended Winnipeg’s winning streak to seven games.
Comrie, who has often been let down by his teammates this season, now holds a 5-7-1 record. His last shutout came nearly a year ago when he played for the Buffalo Sabres.
“Shutouts are always great, but this one feels extra special,” Comrie said. “The guys played incredibly well in front of me, and it’s just a great team to be a part of.”
The Jets capitalized on their power-play opportunities, with Nino Niederreiter and Neal Pionk each scoring on the man advantage. Winnipeg now leads the NHL with 51 power-play goals this season. Rasmus Kupari also found the net, while Niederreiter added an assist.
Carolina’s goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov made 27 saves, but the Hurricanes couldn’t crack Winnipeg’s defence. They entered the game with the league’s best penalty kill and had gone seven consecutive games without conceding a power-play goal. That streak ended against the Jets.
The game took a dramatic turn late in the first period. Carolina’s Jackson Blake appeared to put the Hurricanes ahead on a power play, but Winnipeg successfully challenged the goal for goaltender interference. Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour acknowledged the impact of the call.
“If that goal stands, we’re in control,” Brind’Amour said. “But that’s hockey—sometimes the calls go your way, sometimes they don’t.”
Winnipeg also had a goal overturned when Vladislav Namestnikov was ruled to have kicked the puck in. Later, Kupari’s goal was initially disallowed for interference before a coach’s challenge reversed the decision, sealing the 3-0 win.
Comrie credited the team’s video and analytics coach, Matt Prefontaine, for the successful challenges.
“He’s the Connor McDavid of video coaches,” Comrie joked.
Niederreiter also earned praise, not just for his offence but for blocking a crucial shot. Comrie expressed gratitude for his teammate’s willingness to help him stay sharp in practices, especially since he plays behind star goalie Connor Hellebuyck.
“I don’t get as many starts, so having a guy like Nino helping me stay sharp is huge,” Comrie said.
Niederreiter, however, downplayed his role.
“Comrie was the star tonight,” he said. “He made the big saves when it mattered. I’m just happy for him.”
