Articles / How Jets are really feeling the loss of Ehlers in their secondary scoring

How Jets are really feeling the loss of Ehlers in their secondary scoring

S
Sportsnet
Dec 18, 2025 2:15 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Sportsnet. Read the full original article here →

The Winnipeg Jets are feeling the impact of Nikolaj Ehlers' absence more than they anticipated, and it's becoming evident in their secondary scoring struggles. Without Ehlers, who is known for his speed and playmaking ability, the Jets have struggled to find consistency in their attack. The reliance on top players like Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor has intensified, as they are shouldering more of the offensive burden.

In recent matches, opponents have recognized the Jets' limited offensive options without Ehlers, which has allowed them to focus on shutting down the team's primary scorers. The lack of depth scoring has been glaring, with the team needing other players to step up and contribute as they look to maintain their playoff position. Players like Adam Lowry and Blake Wheeler will need to find ways to create more chances and relieve the pressure on their stars.

As the Jets navigate these challenges, the coaching staff is exploring various line combinations to optimize their lineup. The hope is to spark some chemistry among the forwards, encouraging more robust contributions from the entire roster. While the team remains optimistic about Ehlers' eventual return, the current situation highlights the importance of depth in the NHL, especially for teams aiming for a deep playoff run.