**2021–22 Winnipeg Jets season**
The 2021–22 Winnipeg Jets season was the franchise’s 23rd season since its establishment in 1997 and the 11th season since relocating to Winnipeg in 2011. The Jets competed in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Central Division in the Western Conference. The season was marked by significant roster changes, competitive play, and ultimately, the team’s failure to qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs.
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## 2021–22 Winnipeg Jets season
### Overview
The 2021–22 season represented the Winnipeg Jets’ 23rd overall season and their 11th since the franchise moved from Atlanta to Winnipeg. The Jets played their home games at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The team was led by head coach Paul Maurice, who was in his third full season with the Jets, and general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff. The season was notable for the Jets’ efforts to rebound from a disappointing 2020–21 campaign, which saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since relocating to Winnipeg.
### Offseason
#### Management and Coaching
During the offseason, the Jets maintained stability in their coaching and management staff. Paul Maurice continued as head coach, with Kevin Cheveldayoff overseeing player personnel decisions as general manager. The front office focused on addressing roster needs through free agency and the NHL Entry Draft.
#### Player Transactions
The Jets were active in the offseason market, aiming to bolster their defensive corps and add depth scoring. Key acquisitions included signing free agents and making trades to improve the team’s competitiveness. The team also faced the challenge of managing salary cap constraints while attempting to retain core players.
#### NHL Entry Draft
At the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Jets selected several prospects to strengthen their pipeline. The team’s draft strategy focused on adding size, skill, and defensive prospects to support the organization’s long-term goals.
### Regular Season
#### Season Start and Performance
The Jets began the 2021–22 season with high expectations, aiming to return to the playoffs. Early in the season, the team showed flashes of strong play but struggled with consistency. Injuries to key players and challenges in special teams performance affected their ability to maintain momentum.
#### Key Players and Statistics
– **Mark Scheifele** served as one of the team’s leading scorers, contributing significantly on offense.
– **Kyle Connor** and **Blake Wheeler** also provided offensive production.
– In goal, **Connor Hellebuyck** remained the Jets’ starting goaltender, delivering solid performances despite facing a high volume of shots.
– Defensively, the Jets relied on a mix of veterans and younger players to stabilize the blue line.
#### Midseason Changes
As the season progressed, the Jets made several roster adjustments, including trades and call-ups from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Manitoba Moose. These moves aimed to address depth issues and improve team chemistry.
#### Standings and Playoff Race
The Jets competed in the Central Division, which was highly competitive throughout the season. Despite efforts to climb the standings, the team struggled to secure a playoff spot. Ultimately, the Jets finished outside the playoff positions, marking the second consecutive season without postseason participation.
### Player Statistics
#### Skaters
The Jets’ offensive output was led by forwards who contributed goals and assists across the lineup. The team’s scoring was balanced but lacked the elite production needed to consistently win games.
#### Goaltending
Connor Hellebuyck played the majority of games in net, posting respectable save percentages and goals-against averages. Backup goaltenders provided support but saw limited action.
### Transactions
Throughout the 2021–22 season, the Jets engaged in various transactions to adjust their roster:
– **Trades:** The team made strategic trades to acquire draft picks and players who could fill specific roles.
– **Free Agent Signings:** The Jets signed free agents to add depth and experience.
– **Waivers and Assignments:** Players were moved between the NHL roster and the AHL affiliate to manage injuries and performance.
### Draft Picks
The Jets’ selections in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft reflected their focus on building for the future. The team prioritized players with strong two-way abilities and potential to develop into NHL contributors.
### Farm Teams
The Jets’ primary AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose, played a crucial role in developing prospects and providing call-ups during the season. The Moose competed in the AHL’s Central Division, with several players making the jump to the NHL level during the year.
### Impact of COVID-19
The 2021–22 NHL season was affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, with protocols impacting player availability and scheduling. The Jets, like other teams, faced challenges related to health and safety measures, including postponed games and roster disruptions.
### Summary and Outlook
The 2021–22 Winnipeg Jets season was a campaign of rebuilding and adjustment. Despite efforts to improve from the previous year, the team fell short of playoff qualification. The season highlighted areas for improvement, including offensive consistency and defensive depth. Looking ahead, the Jets aimed to leverage their young talent and make strategic moves to return to postseason contention in future seasons.
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## Season Standings
| Division | GP | W | L | OT | Pts | GF | GA |
|——————-|—-|—-|—-|—-|—–|—–|—–|
| Central Division | 82 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
*Note: Final standings data to be inserted upon season completion.*
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## Team Roster
*Roster details including player names, positions, and jersey numbers.*
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## Awards and Honors
No major individual awards were won by Jets players during the 2021–22 season. However, several players received recognition for their contributions at various points in the season.
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## References
*Data compiled from NHL official statistics and team reports.*
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**Meta Description:**
The 2021–22 Winnipeg Jets season was marked by roster changes and competitive play but ended with the team missing the playoffs. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Jets’ performance, transactions, and key moments during the season.