Can Winnipeg shut down a red-hot Taylor Hall? That’s the question, writes Ken Wiebe.

The Winnipeg Jets are about to test a theory: Can good defensive players shut down a good offensive player?

Thursday’s game pits Winnipeg ’s shutdown pairing of Josh Morrissey and Dustin Byfuglien against the rejuvenated Taylor Hall. The New Jersey Devils winger has emerged as a serious Hart Trophy candidate and notched at least a point in 26 consecutive games, so he’s tough to contain.

The Devils sit fourth in the Metropolitan Division at 34-25-8, but have a minus-4 goal differential.

Winnipeg, second in the Central Division at 40-179, are a plus-48 (223 goals for, 175 against).

Here’s what to watch in Thursday’s game:

1.

Laine keeps scoring

Jets sniper Patrik Laine is riding a nine-game point streak and has 13 goals and 19 points in that stretch. With 38 goals, Laine is in the chase for the Rocket Richard Trophy behind Alex Ovechkin (40). The other big development for Laine is 10 of the last 13 have come at even strength.

2.

Scheifele hurting There was no update on the status of Jets centre Mark Scheifele, but the smart money is he will miss at least one game with an upper-body injury. Scheifele left Tuesday’s game against the New York Rangers with a suspected issue with his right collarbone. Scheifele collided with linemate Blake Wheeler. Cameras caught him mouthing the words “collarbone” and “hard to breathe.”

3.

Fitting right in

Jets centre Paul Stastny hasn’t needed much time to fit in since being acquired in a deadline deal with the St. Louis Blues. Stastny had the game-winner in Sunday’s 3-2 win over Carolina and added an assist Tuesday to give him two goals and five points in four games.

4.

Chiarot streaking

Jets defenceman Ben Chiarot has played well in his own zone recently, providing a physical presence while also chipping in offensively. With a goal and four points, Chiarot is riding a four-game point streak and is up to 10 points in 41 games.

5.

Rookies rolling

Devils rookies are coming through. Nico Hischier, the first overall pick, has come as advertised and is second in team scoring behind Hall. Jesper Bratt is third in points and tied for fourth in goals, while defenceman Will Butcher has also provided some offensive punch, recording 32 points.