Dylan Samberg, Neal Pionk, Cole Perfetti, and Nino Niederreiter of the Winnipeg Jets celebrate after Pionk scored a goal against the Anaheim Ducks in Winnipeg. The Jets won 2-1 in overtime on April 16, 2025. Photo by John Woods/The Canadian Press.
Cole Perfetti, a key forward for the Winnipeg Jets, is eager to take another shot at the NHL playoffs after limited participation last year. Having only played one game in the team’s first-round series, Perfetti is now more excited than ever to face the St. Louis Blues in the opening round of this year’s postseason. Coming off his most impressive season yet, he’s ready to help lead the Jets to victory.
After Winnipeg’s 2-1 overtime win over the Anaheim Ducks, Perfetti shared his excitement for the playoffs. He mentioned how the team’s strong performance in the second half of the season has prepared them for the upcoming challenge. The Jets have earned a top seed and Perfetti feels optimistic about their chances this time around, especially after only a small taste of the playoffs last year.
Perfetti’s role in the Ducks’ game was pivotal, as he assisted on Neal Pionk’s second-period goal, helping him reach 50 points on the season. He also emphasized how the win served as a key tune-up for their first playoff game, as the team created plenty of scoring chances, despite Anaheim goalie Ville Husso’s strong efforts.
The Jets are entering the playoffs after recently beating the Blues 3-1, which ended their 12-game win streak. Perfetti acknowledged the Blues’ strong play since the break but remains confident, knowing the Jets have already defeated them. With the Blues playing well, this series promises to be an intense matchup.
A major strength for the Jets is their defence, supported by goalie Connor Hellebuyck, who recently won the William M. Jennings Trophy for the second consecutive year. This award goes to the goalie who allows the fewest goals in the regular season. Perfetti praised Hellebuyck’s consistent performance and credited the team’s solid defensive play for their success.
Jets coach Scott Arniel reflected on the team’s 116-point season, highlighting the importance of focusing on defence from the start. He emphasized that the teams with the best defence typically fare the best in the playoffs. With strong goaltending and defence, the Jets are in a great position to compete for the championship.
Mark Scheifele’s overtime game-winner against the Ducks capped off the regular season and set the stage for the Jets as they head into the first round of the playoffs.
