Well Winnipeg Jet fans could go without the update they received from head coach Scott Arniel today. It appears as though speedy Dane Nikolaj Ehlers has a foot injury, and will be out week-to-week. This is definitely not ideal news for the team or the fans just ahead of the start of the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Nikolaj Ehlers Out Week-to-Week with Foot Injury
The injury occurred on Saturday in the Jets game against the Chicago Blackhawks. After a collision where Ehlers had to be helped off the ice, it sounds like he aggravated an existing issue. Now, as the Jets set to embark on a post-season journey along with 15 other NHL teams, they’ll have to do it without the speedy winger.
In some ways, the 28-year-old Ehlers is having a near, career year. His points-60-minutes in all situations is 3.5, that ties him with his career high. What that equates to, is he has 24 goals, 39 assists, and 63 points in 69 games skated on the campaign. Amazingly similar to his second year in the league, believe it or not. Even though he did it in 82 that year, he had 25-39-64. Those assists and point totals are his career marks. But just what has been different for Ehlers in 2024-25?
What Ehlers Means to the Jets and How they Can Compensate
Before the news of the injury, the big difference for Nikolaj Ehlers in 2024-25, unlike under Rick Bowness‘ previous regime, has been his work on the power play. Bowness tended to not allow him that opportunity. However, he has done well under Arniel. His 22 power play points is by far his best career total. He has helped power the Jets to the top power play percentage (29.4%) in the entire NHL. In comparison, last year at 18.8%, they found themselves in the bottom third of the league. So, without Ehlers’ offence, who will step up?
Gabriel Vilardi has joined the big guys like Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele on the top unit this year. Assuming he will be back, it is likely Cole Perfetti picks up the slack in Ehlers’ absence. Another candidate could be Nino Niederreiter. Perfetti, in particular, is having a strong season. He’s up to 49 points and has chipped in with five power play markers. In any case, Arniel does have some options to keep Ehlers’ spot warm.
Main Photo: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
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