Jets storm back on Oilers
The Winnipeg Jets were left shaking their heads when Sunday’s comeback was spoiled by a stunning, late collapse. A similar script played out two nights later — only with a different final chapter.
Nikolaj Ehlers scored once and added three assists as Winnipeg rebounded from an early 3-1 deficit Tuesday with four straight goals, including three early in the third period, to defeat the Edmonton Oilers 6-4.
The Jets trailed 2-1 heading into the final 20 minutes some 48 hours earlier against the same opponent before surging ahead, but ultimately walked away with nothing after the Oilers tied things with four minutes left in regulation to set up Leon Draisaitl’s demoralizing winner with 0.7 seconds remaining on the clock.
Winnipeg found itself in a near-identical situation down 3-2 through 40 minutes Tuesday. This time, however, the Jets scored three times in a span of three minutes 27 seconds to secure a lead they wouldn’t squander.
“It’s the highs and lows of professional sport,” said Winnipeg forward Adam
Lowry, who scored the winner to go along with two assists.
“Sometimes it seems like you have an emotional letdown the next game.
“The first period wasn’t our best, but we regrouped. We’ve got a lot of belief in our room and the firepower we have.”
Andrew Copp added two goals, including one into an empty net, and two assists, while Paul Stastny, with a goal and an assist, and Mathieu Perreault provided the rest of the offence for Winnipeg (5-20). Connor Hellebuyck made 22 saves.
“Our mentality of just staying in the battle,” Ehlers said when asked how his team shook off a tough loss and a rough opening 20 minutes.
“And knowing that we’re better than that.”
Connor McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, with a goal and an assist each, Draisaitl and Adam Larsson replied for Edmonton (3-5-0), which has yet to win consecutive games in the all-Canadian North Division. Mikko Koskinen made 27 saves, while Darnell Nurse added three assists.
“Same type of story as the other night,” McDavid said. “We did a good job most of the 40 minutes, and then in the third period we kind of just let it get away.
“Able to battle back the other night. Not tonight. It’s frustrating.”