WINNIPEG - In a thrilling start to the Stanley Cup playoffs, the Winnipeg Jets emerged victorious against the St. Louis Blues with a score of 5-3 in Game 1 of their opening-round matchup on Saturday, April 19, 2025. The success was largely due to the contributions of the Jets' dynamic top-line duo, Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele, who each recorded a goal and two assists throughout the game.

As the clock ticked down in the third period, Scheifele made a crucial play by threading a pass to Connor, who capitalized with a one-timer goal that broke a 3-3 tie with just 1:36 remaining. Jets' captain Adam Lowry later sealed the win with an empty-net goal, marking a decisive moment in a game filled with excitement and intensity.

With this performance, Scheifele became the all-time franchise leader for the Jets and formerly the Atlanta Thrashers with 41 points in playoff history. Reflecting on his achievement, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform in front of their home crowd, describing the experience as “pretty special” and “fun.”

Connor, when asked about his chemistry with Scheifele and whether he anticipated the pivotal pass, laughed as he responded affirmatively, underscoring their long-standing rapport. Meanwhile, Scheifele conveyed his confidence in Connor’s ability to score every time he has the puck, emphasizing how fortunate he feels to play alongside such a talented player. Lowry praised their dynamic relationship, highlighting their ability to maintain tight support in the offensive zone without crowding one another.

Game 1 took place at the Canada Life Centre, filled to capacity with 15,225 fans creating a loud "whiteout" atmosphere. Historically, teams that claim victory in Game 1 of a best-of-seven series have an impressive series record of 525 wins to 247 losses (.680), according to NHL statistics. The Jets demonstrated their dominance throughout the regular season, finishing with a remarkable 56-22-4 record, which earned them the prestigious Presidents' Trophy for having the best overall performance.

Both Connor and Scheifele concluded the regular season with personal bests in points, having played all 82 games. Connor’s impressive tally reached 97 points, including 41 goals, while Scheifele achieved 39 goals and 87 points. Scheifele’s record-breaking playoff performance led him to surpass former captain Blake Wheeler's franchise mark of 39 playoff points, a testament to his continuous improvement as an athlete.

Lowry praised Scheifele for consistently enhancing his skills and evolving as a player, acknowledging the challenge of understanding how an athlete in their 30s continues to improve rather than plateau. He noted that Scheifele's dedication to training results in tangible rewards, exemplified by their stars performing at a high level during the game.

Supporting the Jets' scoring efforts, Jaret Anderson-Dolan and Alex Iafallo also found the back of the net, while Josh Morrissey contributed with two assists. In goal, Connor Hellebuyck made 14 saves, maintaining a crucial presence as the Jets defended their lead. Both Connor and Scheifele’s exceptional play was acknowledged not only by their coach but also by Hellebuyck, who noted their elite skill set and understanding of the game.

For the Blues, Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou each scored power play goals, and Oskar Sundqvist added another at even strength. Despite the loss, Blues’ goaltender Jordan Binnington made 21 stops. The Blues entered the playoffs as the final wild-card team in the Western Conference, achieving their spot with a decisive victory in their last regular-season game. Coach Jim Montgomery recognized Scheifele and Connor’s unique blend of skill and talent, particularly pointing out the high-end play that led to the game-winning goal.

As the game unfolded, the Jets faced challenges, including goal attempts from the Blues that kept the pressure on. Positioned at 3-2 after Kyrou's second-period goal, the Jets executed strategic plays to regain control, leading to Iafallo’s goal that evened the score. Reflecting on the intensity of playoff hockey, Hellebuyck remarked on the necessity of playing hard until the final moments, highlighting the vibrancy and energy of the game.

As the series continues, the Jets prepare for Game 2, scheduled for Monday, where they aim to build on their momentum. Blues’ captain Brayden Schenn emphasized the importance of managing emotions during the playoffs, recognizing that special teams play would be critical in future games. The Jets finished 1-for-4 on the power play, while the Blues had success at 2-for-3, showcasing the importance of discipline and execution in the games to come.