2014-15 record: 43-26-13 (99 points)
Lost to Anaheim in Conference quarterfinals
Captain: Andrew Ladd
The Winnipeg Jets made a furious push to make the playoffs for the first time since their days as the Atlanta Thrashers. However, like the Thrashers team that made the playoffs in 2007, the Jets were promptly swept out of the playoffs. Unlike that team though, the Jets look primed to build on their playoff appearance with largely the same cast as the one that ended the regular season, and they may be younger than they were with a couple of additions from within. Offensively, they were middle of the pack, but the top line of Blake Wheeler, Andrew Ladd, and Bryan Little all scored more than 20 goals each. Secondary scoring wasn't a problem, either, as five of the nine players that are returning scored in double digits. Only one of the departed, Michael Frolik, will have any impact on the team, as he was counted on for versatility and penalty kill, the latter more important, since the Jets were short-handed the most times last season. Defensively, there is great depth, something that came in handy when injuries hit. In addition, Dustin Byfuglien's ability to move between forward and defense gives the Jets greater flexibility when it comes to setting lineups. In goal, Ondrej Pavelec finally started to play like the goalie the Jets envisioned...some of the time. Yes, he struggled in the first half of the season, which opened the door for Michael Hutchinson to seize the starting job for a time before he too struggled. More consistent play in goal will be needed, but at its best, it can propel the Jets to greater heights.
Prediction: 3rd in the Central Division
The Jets still have players like Nikolaj Ehlers and Josh Morrissey at the door waiting to make their NHL debuts, and with the current group finally knowing what it takes to become playoff contenders, it's time for them to take that next step and become Stanley Cup contenders. They have the ability, but will the consistency come along for the ride?
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