After two games this season, Mark Scheifele appears to be in a better mood than he has been in recent seasons, much to the delight of the Winnipeg Jets.
In addition to two goals and three points, which will surprise no one, what stands out most is his defensive play. The center, who is often criticized for this aspect of his game, appears to be more invested in his defensive returns, posting a 62.7% efficiency rate in the faceoff circle. To put everything into perspective, he is averaging 46.4% since entering the National Hockey League (NHL).
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“I felt good,” Scheifele said of his play after the Jets’ first game of the season. It was only our third meeting as a trio [avec Kyle Connor et Gabe Vilardi], but we have created many good things. I felt good, but I have to keep working.”
Rick Bowness is very excited about what he has seen from his striker so far.
“He was outstanding everywhere on the ice,” the Jets’ head coach said after Saturday’s 6-4 win over the Florida Panthers, the Winnipeg Sun reported. He plays solidly and with feeling. When he plays like that, he’s physically involved in the game. He was impeccable in both of our games, both with and without the puck.”
Difficult season in Winnipeg
Bowness and Scheifele weren’t on the same page last season. Additionally, the Jets had a very difficult second half of the season, barely qualifying for the playoffs before falling to the eventual Stanley Cup champions, the Vegas Golden Knights, in five games in the first round.
Scheifele was not spared from this decline and collected 42 goals and 68 points in 81 games. Despite setting a personal best for total goals, it was the first time since 2015-2016 that the Ontario native did not average at least a point per game.
Things were also eventful off the ice due to several trade rumors. After testing the autonomy market next summer, he recently accepted a seven-year, $59.5 million contract extension.
The Jets have a record of one win and one loss this season. They play their next game on Tuesday night when they host the Los Angeles Kings.