Games between the Winnipeg Jets and the St Louis Blues are usually close, low scoring, physical affairs that the Blues usually end up winning. Tonight’s game fit the script except the ending was different. It was a close, low scoring, physical game but it was the Jets who emerged with a 2-1 shootout victory.

The Jets were fortunate to leave the first period unscathed as they had several miscues in their own end. A combination of excellent goaltending from Connor Hellebuyck and the Blues missing scoring opportunities kept the game scoreless through one.

Bryan Little ended an 8 game goalless drought by opening the scoring after only 15 seconds had elapsed in the second as he banked one off Blues goalie Brian Elliott.

The Blues tied it two minutes later on the power play has Colton Parayko’s blast beat a screened Hellebuyck.

The Jets started to take over the game midway through the second, dominating possession and zone time. But the Blues were getting chances on the counter attack. Both Elliott and Hellebuyck needed to be strong to keep the game tied.

The Jets had an excellent third period and nearly won the game when Tyler Myers shot went off Andrew Ladd’s shoulder and hit the crossbar. Some bad puck luck sent this game to overtime.

In the three-on-three, the Jets outshot the Blues 4-1 but couldn’t find a way to put one past Elliott. The Blues had a great chance at the end of overtime but noted Jet killer Vladimir Tarasenko was robbed by Hellebuyck to send this game to a skills competition.

Once again the goalies shone, particularly Hellebuyck who stoned Tarasenko again with a sparkling pad save. Mark Scheifele scored the only goal in the shootout with a perfect wrist shot over Elliott’s glove into the top corner.

Three Keys:

Hellebuyck & Elliott Shines: This was a solid goaltending duel and credit must be given to both keepers. Hellebuyck stopped 22 out of 23 shots and all 4 Blues shootout attempts. Elliott stopped 32 out of 33 shots and 3 out of the 4 Jets shootout attempts. Can’t fault Elliott on Scheifele’s shootout winner as that was a perfect shot.

Staying Out Of The Box: The Jets only took three minor penalties and remain disciplined for most of the game. They didn’t fall for any of the Blues shenanigans and kept their own noses clean. The Jets are a solid 5-on-5 team so keeping their emotions in check is vital for future success.

Holding Tarasenko In Check: Coming into this game, Vladimir Tarasenko had 7 points in the previous 3 meetings against our beloved heroes. The Jets kept Tarasenko at bay tonight, holding him off the scoresheet. Yes, Tarasenko did generate 4 shots on goal but a combination of sturdy defensive play and fine goaltending from Hellebuyck, left the Blues star frustrated.