Jets Look to Clinch Presidents’ Trophy Against Banged-Up Oilers
By Field Level Media | Published April 13, 2025
The Winnipeg Jets are one point away from claiming the first Presidents’ Trophy in franchise history as they prepare to face the injury-hit Edmonton Oilers on Sunday.
Coming off a grueling 5-4 shootout win over the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday night, the Jets (55-21-4, 114 points) are riding a three-game winning streak. Cole Perfetti netted the deciding goal in his first career shootout attempt, with Josh Morrissey scoring twice and Kyle Connor contributing a goal and an assist.
“It’s taken 80 games to win this division,” said Jets coach Scott Arniel after his team clinched the Central Division and Western Conference titles. “It’s been a grind, but we got it done.”
However, the victory came at a cost as forward Nikolaj Ehlers left the game early due to an apparent injury after a collision with a linesman. His status remains uncertain. “We’ll know more when we get home,” Arniel said, noting it may be related to a previous issue.
Meanwhile, the Oilers (46-28-5, 97 points) have found momentum with Connor McDavid back in the lineup. After missing eight games with a lower-body injury, McDavid has assisted on seven of Edmonton’s last eight goals, leading them to recent wins over the Blues and Sharks.
“Connor’s the best player in the world, no question,” said teammate Corey Perry, following McDavid’s four-assist night against San Jose. McDavid has now achieved five straight 70-assist seasons — only the fourth player in NHL history to do so.
Despite clinching a playoff spot, Edmonton continues to battle injuries. Mattias Ekholm and Zach Hyman both exited Friday’s game, adding to a growing list of sidelined players that includes Leon Draisaitl, Jake Walman, Trent Frederic, and Evander Kane.
Winnipeg has won four of the last six matchups between the two teams.
