NHL News
Nikolaj Ehlers Reflects on Jets’ Momentum and Surging Power Play
The Winnipeg Jets are riding a surge of momentum with their three-game winning streak. How does Nikolaj Ehlers explain the team’s success?
Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers sat down with Sportsnet’s Sean Reynolds following the Jets’ 5-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators. In the interview, Ehlers opened up about how the team bounced back after a tough California road trip and credited their red-hot power play as a key factor in their recent success.
The Jets Are Turning It Around After a Tough Road Trip
Ehlers acknowledged that the Jets weren’t satisfied with their play during their recent road trip in California, where the team struggled to find their rhythm. “When you’re not playing well, you try to figure out how to turn it around,” Ehlers shared. As he saw it, the recipe for improvement was simple: skate faster, work harder, and simplify the game.
He elaborated that when things aren’t clicking, teams often stop skating and overcomplicate plays by searching for the perfect pass instead of taking shots. However, the Jets have shifted gears in the past three games. They’ve focused on creating chaos by putting more pucks on the net. Their changed tactics have paid off, with solid wins over quality opponents since returning from the road trip.
The Jets Power Play Is Clicking
Ehlers also spoke about the Jets’ surging power play. As he noted, it’s been firing on all cylinders recently. When asked what makes the unit so dangerous, he credited their quick puck movement and ability to make smart reads on the ice.
“When we move it fast and get pucks to the net quick, that’s when things open up,” Ehlers said. He highlighted the chemistry among the five players on the unit, noting that each of them can make plays and finish opportunities. The power play’s effectiveness was on full display against Ottawa, further cementing its status as a major strength for the team.
Ehlers also celebrated his return to form. After missing time earlier this season due to injury, he’s happy to be back and contributing to the Jets’ recent success. Reynolds closed the interview by congratulating Ehlers on his return to form, to which the winger responded with a simple but heartfelt, “Thanks, Nick.”
What All This Means for the Jets
The Jets are coming off a so-so series of games and are now riding a wave of success. According to Ehlers, that success is thanks to the team’s renewed focus on hard work and a more simplified approach to the game. With their power play clicking, the team looks ready to make a strong push in the coming weeks.
Related: Insider Links Flyers and Jets in Fit for Nearly-Untradeable D-Man