Winnipeg Jets vs Detroit Red Wings Picks and Predictions January 4th 2025

Red Wings ride momentum into matchup with NHL-best Jets

The Winnipeg Jets, sitting atop the NHL with 56 points and 27 wins, face a critical test against a surging Detroit Red Wings team this Saturday. Despite their impressive record, the Jets are coming off two consecutive losses, while the Red Wings are riding high on a three-game winning streak under their new head coach, Todd McLellan.

This intriguing matchup will pit two teams with contrasting trajectories against each other. Here’s a closer look at their recent performances and what to expect.

Register Here!

Jets Struggling to Maintain Momentum

The Jets started the season strong but are showing signs of vulnerability. They lost 4-3 in overtime to the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday after a 5-2 defeat to the Colorado Avalanche on New Year’s Eve. Defensive lapses have been a recurring theme, with the team blowing leads in both games.

Against Anaheim, the Jets squandered a 2-0 advantage in the first period and a 3-2 lead late in regulation. Troy Terry’s second goal of the game in overtime sealed Winnipeg’s fate.

“We came out really well in the first, obviously a great start,” said defenseman Josh Morrissey, who tallied two assists. “But there were points where we could’ve managed the puck better at the blue lines. That’s something we need to clean up.”

Alex Iafallo gave the Jets a late 3-2 lead with 2:44 remaining, only for Anaheim’s Radko Gudas to tie the game 54 seconds later. Iafallo reflected on the team’s inconsistency, saying, “It was kind of a roller coaster of a game… We need to bring pressure consistently for all three periods. It would have been a different outcome.”

The Best Expert Hockey Handicappers

Red Wings Thriving Under Todd McLellan

In stark contrast, the Detroit Red Wings are thriving. After replacing Derek Lalonde with Todd McLellan on December 26, the Wings have found their groove, winning three straight games. Their latest victory, a dramatic 5-4 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday, showcased the team’s resilience.

Detroit blew leads of 3-1 and 4-3 but managed to secure the win with 36 seconds left. Jonatan Berggren emerged as the hero, scoring a breakaway goal moments after serving a penalty.

“The finish is what we were looking for—not necessarily the road map we had to get there,” McLellan said. “But we learned something about our team: there’s resiliency in this group.”

Berggren’s goal marked his second consecutive game with a breakaway tally. Teammate Alex DeBrincat, who had a goal and two assists, praised the team’s grit. “There’s no quit,” he said. “Our PK did a great job, and obviously, Berggren came through in the clutch.”

Key Matchup Factors

1. Defensive Consistency
   Both teams have struggled to maintain leads. Winnipeg must address their lapses at crucial moments, while Detroit needs to tighten up their defensive play late in games.
2. Special Teams Play
   Detroit’s penalty kill was critical in their last win, and Winnipeg will need their power play to step up to capitalize on opportunities.
3. Momentum Players
   • Jets: Josh Morrissey’s playmaking ability and Alex Iafallo’s timely scoring will be crucial.
   • Red Wings: Jonatan Berggren’s knack for clutch goals and Alex DeBrincat’s offensive output will be game-changers.
4. Coaching Impact
   Todd McLellan has revitalized the Red Wings, instilling a sense of urgency and confidence. The Jets will need to respond with discipline and focus to counter Detroit’s momentum.

What to Expect

The game promises a high-energy battle with both teams looking to assert dominance. Winnipeg, eager to halt their skid, will rely on their home-ice advantage and a strong start to regain confidence. Meanwhile, Detroit will look to continue their resurgence, using their newfound resilience to exploit the Jets’ vulnerabilities.

For Winnipeg, it’s about proving their status as league leaders by addressing late-game issues. For Detroit, it’s an opportunity to close the gap in the playoff race and solidify their position as a rising threat under McLellan.

Final Thoughts

This matchup between the NHL’s best team and a surging underdog has all the makings of a thrilling contest. Will the Jets bounce back and defend their top spot, or will the Red Wings extend their winning streak and continue their rise? All eyes will be on Winnipeg come Saturday night.