Anaheim Ducks vs Winnipeg Jets Picks and Predictions December 18th 2024

Jets flying high as they face Ducks

The Winnipeg Jets are set to visit the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday, aiming to extend their remarkable dominance in one of the NHL’s most one-sided rivalries. Winnipeg has been a consistent thorn in Anaheim’s side, boasting a 16-2-1 record in their last 19 meetings, including an unblemished 8-0-0 streak in their past eight encounters. For the Ducks, Wednesday presents an uphill battle against both history and the current standings.

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Jets Flying High at the Top

Winnipeg enters the matchup as the NHL’s top team, leading the league with 47 points (23-9-1). Their latest outing, a gritty 4-3 comeback victory over the San Jose Sharks, highlighted the Jets’ ability to dig deep in challenging situations.

A dynamic offense, spearheaded by their top line of Kyle Connor, Gabriel Vilardi, and Mark Scheifele, has been key to Winnipeg’s recent success. Over the last seven games, this trio has combined for 31 points, ensuring the Jets remain a formidable force.

Additionally, the Jets boast the league’s best power-play unit, converting at a staggering 31.7% (32 of 101). According to Connor, their adaptability has been the secret to their success, “We make it a focal point to adjust to how they’re killing and be dynamic. It’s about scoring different ways every single time.”

Ducks Seeking Redemption

In stark contrast, Anaheim finds itself at the bottom of the Pacific Division with a record of 11-14-4 (26 points). The Ducks, however, managed to snap a five-game losing streak with a spirited 4-3 overtime victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday.

Troy Terry, Anaheim’s leading scorer with 24 points (8 goals, 16 assists), has been a bright spot, tallying 12 points in his last 10 games. Meanwhile, John Gibson delivered a stellar 39-save performance in their Columbus win, proving he’s capable of standing tall under pressure. Gibson’s potential matchup against Winnipeg backup Eric Comrie could play a significant role in shaping the game’s outcome.

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Key Matchup: Jets Power Play vs. Ducks Penalty Kill

If there’s a decisive factor in this game, it’s likely to be the clash between Winnipeg’s elite power play and Anaheim’s struggling penalty kill. The Ducks rank near the bottom of the league with a 72.5% penalty-kill success rate, leaving them vulnerable against the Jets’ relentless attack.

Anaheim must find a way to neutralize Winnipeg’s ability to exploit special teams if they hope to stand a chance.

Rest vs. Momentum

One advantage for the Ducks is rest. They haven’t played since Saturday, giving them a fresher lineup compared to the Jets, who are on the second night of a back-to-back. However, Winnipeg’s momentum and proven resilience—like Tuesday’s comeback win against San Jose—make them a tough opponent, even when fatigued.

Players to Watch

Winnipeg Jets:

• Kyle Connor: The league’s power-play leader with eight goals, Connor’s adaptability ensures he remains a constant threat.
• Adam Lowry: Delivered the game-winning goal against San Jose and has been a clutch performer in critical moments.

Anaheim Ducks:

• Troy Terry: Leading the Ducks offensively, Terry’s playmaking abilities could be the spark Anaheim needs.
• John Gibson: Coming off a stellar performance, Gibson’s ability to handle Winnipeg’s potent offense will be pivotal.

Prediction

Winnipeg’s dominance in the series and their current form make them the favorites. However, Anaheim’s rest advantage and the potential for a standout game from Gibson could level the playing field. For the Ducks to pull off the upset, they’ll need disciplined play, effective penalty killing, and timely scoring.

Conclusion

The stage is set for an intriguing matchup between a Jets team looking to maintain their dominance and a Ducks squad eager to turn their season around. Whether it’s the Jets’ power-play mastery or Anaheim’s fight to defy the odds, fans are in for an exciting night of hockey.