WINNIPEG — Gabriel Vilardi’s scoring prowess was on full display as he netted two goals to propel the Winnipeg Jets to a convincing 6-2 victory over the Colorado Avalanche at Canada Life Centre on Saturday. The win showcased the Jets’ offensive depth and solid goaltending.
Winnipeg coach Rick Bowness praised Vilardi for his skill and patience with the puck, noting his importance in the team’s success. Alongside Vilardi, Nikolaj Ehlers, Alex Iafallo, and Vladislav Namestnikov each contributed a goal and an assist. Connor Hellebuyck bolstered the Jets (18-9-2) with 30 saves, as they secured their sixth win in seven games.
Jonathan Drouin and Jack Johnson scored for the Avalanche (18-10-2), who have now lost six of their last nine games (3-4-2). Nathan MacKinnon continued his impressive form, extending his point streak to 14 games, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Jets’ offensive surge. Ivan Prosvetov, in goal for Colorado, made 20 saves in the absence of starting goalie Cale Makar due to injury.
The Jets established a strong lead in the first period, with Vilardi opening the scoring with a skillful play. Namestnikov’s power-play goal doubled the lead, demonstrating the Jets’ effectiveness with the man advantage.
Iafallo extended the lead to 3-0 in the second period, ending his 19-game goal drought since early November. The Avalanche attempted a comeback in the third period, with Drouin cutting the deficit to two goals. However, Vilardi’s second goal of the game and Nino Niederreiter’s one-timer extended the Jets’ lead further.
Despite Johnson’s effort to narrow the gap for the Avalanche, Ehlers’ empty-net goal sealed the 6-2 victory for Winnipeg. Coach Bowness expressed satisfaction with the team’s depth and overall performance, despite conceding a second goal to Colorado.
NOTES:
- Nathan MacKinnon’s point streak is the third time he has achieved at least 14 games in his career.
- The Avalanche’s record against Central Division opponents has dropped compared to last season.
- Hellebuyck tied for the NHL wins lead with his fifth consecutive victory.
- The Jets improved their power play, scoring once in two opportunities after a dry spell in previous games.
The Jets will look to maintain their momentum, while the Avalanche aim to regroup and address their recent setbacks in upcoming games.
