Jets Face Blues in Stanley Cup Playoffs Opener

The Winnipeg Jets, after a historic season in which they won their first Presidents’ Trophy and set multiple franchise records, enter the playoffs as heavy favorites against the St. Louis Blues. Despite the Jets winning three of four regular-season matchups, most games were closely contested, suggesting the series may be more competitive than expected. The Blues surged after the 4 Nations Face-Off, posting a strong 19-4-2 record down the stretch and relying on key players like Jordan Kyrou and Pavel Buchnevich to drive offense. Both teams boast impressive depth scoring, and the Jets will need contributions beyond their top stars with key forwards sidelined by injury. The series will test whether Winnipeg can translate regular-season dominance into postseason success, while the Blues aim to capitalize on their late-season momentum and upset the top seed. Analysts caution against underestimating St. Louis, given their competitive regular-season showings against Winnipeg and strong recent form.