Jets, Hurricanes Face Off After Trade Deadline Moves

Jets, Hurricanes Ready for Post-Deadline Playoff Push

The Winnipeg Jets and Carolina Hurricanes meet Sunday in Raleigh, North Carolina, in a matchup featuring two legitimate Stanley Cup contenders fresh off roster upgrades at the trade deadline.

The Jets, who boast the NHL’s best record with 92 points, have been one of the league’s hottest teams, winning 13 of their last 16 games. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes sit second in the Metropolitan Division and are looking to extend their recent three-game winning streak.

Adding to the intrigue, two former Nashville Predators will suit up on opposite sides following deadline deals. Winnipeg acquired defenseman Luke Schenn, while Carolina picked up forward Mark Jankowski.

Winnipeg Continues to Dominate

The Jets didn’t need a major shakeup at the deadline, but they bolstered their depth by bringing in Schenn from Nashville and Brandon Tanev from the Seattle Kraken. Tanev wasted no time making his return to Winnipeg, logging over 11 minutes in Friday’s 6-1 demolition of the New Jersey Devils.

“It’s all smiles coming back to the place where I started my career to a great team and a great group of guys,” Tanev said.

Winnipeg head coach Scott Arniel sees Tanev as a perfect fit.

“I knew he had some quickness to him,” Arniel said. “But you really notice it when he’s on your side.”

The Jets’ dominant run has been defined by consistency. Each of their three recent losses have been by just one goal, including an overtime defeat. Their defensive structure and goaltending remain among the best in the league, making them one of the toughest teams to beat.

Hurricanes Looking for Statement Win

Carolina has spent the past month trying to establish itself as a top contender in the Eastern Conference, and a win over the NHL’s top team would go a long way.

Head coach Rod Brind’Amour admitted the Hurricanes struggled against Winnipeg last month, falling 3-0 on Feb. 4.

“We played them not too long ago,” Brind’Amour said. “It was a good game. But we didn’t find a way to get enough action and goals. They’re one of the best, if not the best, right now. It will be a big challenge.”

Carolina has won three straight games, including a 3-2 victory over the Boston Bruins on Thursday. The Hurricanes are seeking their second four-game win streak since October.

Veteran defenseman Brent Burns will celebrate his 40th birthday Sunday, having played in all 63 games this season. He scored in Thursday’s win over Boston, proving he remains a key piece of Carolina’s blue line.

“He’s still going,” Brind’Amour said. “He’s going to be 40. He doesn’t look like it. He takes care of himself.”

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Trade Deadline Aftermath: New Faces in New Places

The biggest trade news for Carolina wasn’t an addition but rather the departure of Mikko Rantanen, who was traded to the Dallas Stars for top prospect Logan Stankoven and four draft picks. Rantanen, acquired in January from Colorado, didn’t pan out as hoped, leading the Hurricanes to move on quickly.

Meanwhile, Mark Jankowski arrives from Nashville, giving Carolina a depth forward option as they aim to solidify their forward lines for the playoff push.

The Jets’ addition of Luke Schenn provides an experienced presence on the blue line, while Tanev brings playoff-tested speed and grit. Both could play key roles in a deep postseason run.

Key Players to Watch

Winnipeg Jets

• Connor Hellebuyck (G) – One of the league’s best goaltenders, capable of shutting down elite offenses.
• Kyle Connor (F) – Leads Winnipeg in goals and remains the team’s most dangerous offensive weapon.
• Brandon Tanev (F) – Making his return to Winnipeg, he adds speed and physicality to the lineup.

Carolina Hurricanes

• Sebastian Aho (F) – Carolina’s top playmaker and leading goal scorer, crucial in generating offense.
• Brent Burns (D) – Turning 40 on Sunday, the veteran remains a key presence on both ends of the ice.
• Frederik Andersen (G) – Expected to start, looking to slow down a red-hot Winnipeg offense.

Keys to the Game

For Winnipeg:

• Continue defensive dominance – The Jets have given up two or fewer goals in 12 of their last 16 games.
• Win the physical battle – Against a heavy team like Carolina, Schenn and Tanev’s physical play will be key.
• Capitalize on power plays – Carolina’s penalty kill has been inconsistent, and Winnipeg’s special teams could be a difference-maker.

For Carolina:

• Get to the net – The Hurricanes need to create traffic in front of Hellebuyck to generate quality scoring chances.
• Limit turnovers – Winnipeg thrives on transition play; Carolina must protect the puck in the neutral zone.
• Take advantage of home ice – The Hurricanes have been strong at home, and a fast start will be crucial.

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Final Prediction

Both teams enter the game in strong form, but Winnipeg’s recent consistency and elite goaltending give them the edge. Carolina will put up a fight, especially at home, but the Jets have been too well-rounded to bet against.

Prediction: Winnipeg Jets 3, Carolina Hurricanes 2 (OT).