Wild vs Jets Picks and Prediction – 12/22/2024

The Minnesota Wild (20-8-4) face off against the Winnipeg Jets (23-10-1) at the Canada Life Centre. Minnesota is coming off a disappointing 6-1 loss to Florida, while Winnipeg also stumbled in its last outing, falling 3-2 to Anaheim. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

Minnesota has had an inconsistent run, dropping three of the last four games. Offensively, Kirill Kaprizov continues to be a bright spot with 22 goals and 26 assists, leading a squad that ranks 16th in the league in goals scored with 98. Despite these offensive sparks, the Wild have struggled to capitalize on the man advantage, ranking 19th in power-play percentage at 19.8%. Goaltending is another area of concern. Filip Gustavsson, with a .922 save percentage and a 2.24 goals-against average, missed the last game, leaving a void that backup options have yet to fill effectively.

Defensively, Minnesota has held opponents to 84 goals, fourth-best in the NHL. However, the penalty kill is a glaring weakness, sitting 30th in the league with a 70.1% success rate. This inefficiency, coupled with an undisciplined style that has led to 238 penalty minutes, could prove costly against Winnipeg’s potent special teams. Brock Faber’s absence on the blue line adds to the defensive challenges.

Winnipeg, atop the Central Division, boasts a balanced attack led by Kyle Connor, who has netted 27 goals and added 23 assists. The Jets lead the NHL in goals scored (123) and assists (205), showcasing an elite offensive unit. Connor Hellebuyck anchors the crease with a stellar .926 save percentage and a 2.15 goals-against average, contributing to Winnipeg’s solid defensive stats.

Defensively, the Jets have allowed 87 goals, ranking eighth in the league. The penalty kill is average at 78.9%, but disciplined play and the ability to control the puck minimize exposure. With the Wild struggling on special teams, Winnipeg’s 31.4% power-play efficiency could be a decisive factor. Injuries to depth players like Dylan Samberg haven’t derailed strong performances.

Winnipeg’s superior offense and special teams will be the difference-maker in this matchup. Minnesota’s shaky penalty kill is vulnerable to the Jets' league-leading power play, and Connor Hellebuyck’s steady presence in net gives Winnipeg the edge defensively. Expect the Jets to capitalize on home ice. Final Score Prediction: Winnipeg Jets win on the puck line 4-2.