The Winnipeg Jets have been the best team in the NHL to start the 2024-25 season. They made history with an 8-0 start, making their head coach Scott Arniel the first to begin his tenure in an organization with such a record. They also set a new record for the Jets/Atlanta Thrashers organization with their unbeaten streak to start the year.

With a 9-0 record on the line for the Jets, their historic start came to an end thanks to Toronto Maple Leafs. The Leafs handed the Jets their first loss of the season, winning by a score of 6-4.

The Maple Leafs faced the Jets in a way they hadn’t faced this season. Their offensive attack, led by their second line of star winger William Nylander, former captain John Tavares and Max Pacioretty, was dangerous on every shift. Each recorded three points in the contest, including a hat-trick from Tavares. Even with the Jets’ departure of Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg’s defense struggled throughout the game to keep the puck out of its own net.

While the Jets looked out of sorts for most of the contest, they managed to make it a close game in the final third. The one that stood out was winger Kyle Connor. He was hot to start the season and continued this torrid pace of play against the Leafs. He single-handedly carried Winnipeg’s offense, scoring his own hat trick and adding an assist. With his performance, he brought his season total to nine goals, five assists and 13 points.

Now that their first loss is over, it could come as some relief to the Jets and their historic start. They have a solidly constituted team, undoubtedly led by the most complete goalkeeper in the league and an offense that can produce with all four lines. A loss will not disrupt the structure and identity the team is already forming. The Jets hope this will only help them in their quest for another Central Division title.

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