The Winnipeg Jets entered the playoffs with the best regular-season record (56-22-4), winning the Presidents’ Trophy and looking incredibly strong, led by Hart Trophy Candidate Connor Hellebuyck. However, despite their success, many fans and analysts still have doubts about their ability to win the Stanley Cup.
But longtime NHL head coach Bruce Boudreau isn’t one of those doubters. Speaking on The Big Show with The Hockey News’ Michael Traikos and Ryan Kennedy, Boudreau was full of praise for the Jets, calling them “a legit contender.”
Bruce Boudreau’s Confidence in the Jets
Boudreau, who has decades of coaching experience, said without hesitation, “Oh, they’re a legit contender, there’s no doubt in my mind.” The Jets currently hold a 2-1 series lead over the St. Louis Blues after securing two gutsy home wins, even though they suffered a heavy loss on the road. That road loss came without the presence of veteran defenseman Dylan DeMelo, who plays a key role in stabilizing the team’s defense. They also had to manage without two of their top five scorers, Nikolaj Ehlers and Gabriel Vilardi.
Despite these absences, the Jets continue to lead the series and have home-ice advantage in the first round. Boudreau believes this resilience in tough situations proves the Jets are a real threat for the Stanley Cup.
Jets Prove Their Strength in Key Moments
Boudreau shared a moment in the season that convinced him the Jets were serious contenders. “With about 10 games to go in the season, they went into Vegas and beat Vegas 4-0. Then they played Chicago, they won in overtime, they played a couple of lesser lights, and they either lost or just got by. Then all of a sudden they played Dallas, and if Dallas would have won, they would have been within two points of them for the Central Division crown, and they beat them 5-1… they played St. Louis when St. Louis was on their 12-game winning streak and they beat them again very handily,” said Boudreau.
For Boudreau, that game against Dallas in particular showed how the Jets could step up their game when needed. He believes the team’s ability to perform at their best in high-stakes situations is one of the key reasons they have a chance to win it all.
Winnipeg’s Balanced Team Structure
The Jets have a solid and balanced team, capable of playing multiple styles. They roll four strong lines and six defensemen, making them adaptable to their opponents’ play styles. The additions of physical players like Luke Schenn and Brandon Tanev have added another dimension to their game, allowing them to wear down opponents as the game progresses.
Boudreau pointed out that the Jets’ physicality and depth make them a tough team to beat, especially in the later stages of games. Their balanced roster and ability to adapt make them well-equipped for a deep playoff run.
Florida May Be the Deeper Team, but Boudreau Still Believes in the Jets
As a proud Canadian, Boudreau said, “I hope it’s Winnipeg against Florida and that Winnipeg brings it, but I think Florida is going to win, they’re the deepest team.” Boudreau acknowledges the strength of the Florida Panthers, but he believes the Jets have what it takes to compete with the best.
Winnipeg’s playoff path is tough. After their series with the Blues, a potential second-round matchup with the Dallas Stars or Colorado Avalanche awaits. Both teams are strong and capable of making life difficult for the Jets. However, Boudreau believes the Jets are built to handle these challenges, both in terms of their playing style and the strength of their roster.
The Winnipeg Jets are proving their worth in the playoffs, and Bruce Boudreau’s confidence in them is well-deserved. With a solid team structure, physicality, and the ability to perform in high-pressure situations, the Jets are a team to watch this postseason. While they face tough challenges ahead, their resilience and depth suggest they could go all the way and potentially win the Stanley Cup.
