Upset with his team’s performance at this pivotal moment of their season, Winnipeg Jets head coach Rick Bowness made a formal outing against his players on Tuesday night.
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“The inconsistency of some of our players hurts us. A few guys think they’re giving it their all, but they’re dreaming of color,” he said at the press conference after the 3-0 loss to the San Jose Sharks.
“There are guys who give their all, but we also need the others to get on board.”
The Jets are in the middle of the National Hockey League (NHL) Western Conference playoff race. Before Wednesday’s matchup, the Manitoba club was bottom of the list drafted for the playoffs and had a slender two-point lead over the Calgary Flames. The Nashville Predators are also dangerous three-point down and two games in hand.
Against the Sharks, one of the worst teams in the 2022-23 NHL, the Jets suffered their third shutout in their last seven games. They’ve only had the bliss of victory six times in 14 games since the NHL close.
matter of honour
“At some point it’s a matter of personal honor,” Bowness added. If anyone has to get them to understand this, we’re in big trouble. As I said before, we’ll soon find out what we’re talking about.
Among the players who could offer the Jets more is forward Mark Scheifele, who has not scored in his last nine games. Regardless, the 30-year veteran is trying to stay positive.
“It’s difficult. Sometimes, [les rondelles] come, and sometimes not. There’s a lot of pressure at the moment,” said the Jets striker.
“I have to keep working hard, keep my head up and stay positive. This also applies to all the boys in our dressing room. We have to treat each other positively and keep working.”
“We’re paid to produce, so we have to do it,” said Scheifele.
With seven regular-season games remaining for the Jets, who will return to action Friday night with a visit from the Detroit Red Wings at the Canada Life Center.
However, the two most important games of the Winnipeg club’s campaign may come next week against the Flames (April 5) and the Predators (April 8).