Any reason for concern during the Winnipeg Jets’ recent slump?

At one point during the 2023-24 NHL season, there was a case to be made for the Winnipeg Jets being the best team in hockey. With plenty of depth up front, a solid blue line and a Veznia Trophy-caliber goaltender in net with Connor Hellebuyck, picking them as a favorite to win the Stanley Cup would be a logical choice.

But after Tuesday’s 4-3 overtime loss to the Edmonton Oilers, the Jets are losers of four straight and now sit third in the Central Division behind the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche.

On Wednesday’s episode of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Frank Seravalli and former NHL goaltender Carter Hutton are joined by former NHL forward Luke Gazdic to discuss a number of topics, including whether there’s cause for concern for Winnipeg.

Carter Hutton: The Winnipeg Jets have been slipping lately, giving up more goals recently than at any point this season. Is this a reason for concern or is it just a little slump?

Luke Gazdic: No I’m not too concerned. Back in January, they went on a similar path, losing five in a row. Their leadership group stepped up and they won (nine of their next 12 games). I think they’ll do the same thing.

Last night they played a good game, Hellebuyck kept them in it, and they had good efforts from Mark Scheifele and Brendan Dillon, who can bring some physicality. I don’t have too many problems with Winnipeg. Top to bottom, they have a lot of depth, and out of any team in the NHL, their pickups before the Trade Deadline were my favorite. Guys like Colin Miller and Sean Monahan bring a lot to an already stacked lineup.

Yes they’ve dipped, but they’re a tough team to play against. I just don’t see them being an easy out in the playoffs.

You can watch the full segment and the rest of the episode here…