Winnipeg Jets centre Mark Scheifele skates with the puck against the Dallas Stars during the second period of an NHL game Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Dallas. (AP Photo)
Winnipeg and Dallas are getting big boosts as the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs begins. The Jets will welcome forward Mark Scheifele back into the lineup. The Stars will do the same with winger Jason Robertson. Both stars are cleared to play in Game 1 of their Western Conference series.
The two teams square off after thrilling Game 7 victories in their opening-round matchups. Momentum is high — and reinforcements are arriving at the right time.
Scheifele Ready to Spark Jets' Offense
Mark Scheifele returns after missing Games 6 and 7 due to an undisclosed injury. His last appearance was in Game 5 of the first round against St. Louis.
Despite the missed games, Scheifele has tallied six points — two goals and four assists — in just five playoff outings. He was a top contributor during the regular season, posting a career-best 87 points. That mark placed him second in team scoring and was key to Winnipeg securing the Presidents’ Trophy.
The Jets will hope his presence ignites their offensive rhythm once again.
Robertson Rejoins Stars After Injury Layoff
Dallas also regains a key playmaker. Jason Robertson is back in the fold after recovering from a knee injury that kept him out since April 16.
He practiced with linemates Wyatt Johnston and Mason Marchment earlier this week, showing he's game-ready. Robertson finished second on the Stars this season with 80 points and led the team with 35 goals.
His return adds firepower to a Dallas offense that already proved lethal in the first round.
Jets Still Missing Key Defensemen
While Scheifele's return is good news, the Jets will remain without two important blueliners — Josh Morrissey and Logan Stanley.
Morrissey left Game 7 early after taking a hit into the boards. He had registered three assists in the series and averaged over 23 minutes per game. In the regular season, the 30-year-old was a cornerstone on defense, contributing 62 points across 80 games.
Stanley, who played five postseason games without recording a point, also remains out. He held a minus-2 rating and logged 42 penalty minutes. Haydn Fleury stepped in for him during the double-overtime Game 7 win and logged 33:02 of ice time.
Both Morrissey and Stanley skated at practice on Wednesday but stayed late, likely signaling they’re not quite ready for full action.
Game Time Set for Prime Time
Game 1 between the Jets and Stars kicks off Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. ET / 8:30 p.m. CT. Winnipeg will host the opener in front of a loud home crowd.
