Winnipeg Jets HC Scott Arniel makes his feelings known after achieving a historic feat

By ARJUN B

Modified Nov 10, 2024 04:56 GMT

The Winnipeg Jets are off to a red-hot start this NHL season, winning 14 of their first 15 games to set the league record for most wins at the beginning of a season.

After defeating the Dallas Stars 4-1 on Saturday, the Winnipeg Jets improved to 14-1-0, surpassing the previous record of 13 wins held by three teams: the 2007-08 Ottawa Senators, 2013-14 Colorado Avalanche, and 1994-95 Quebec Nordiques.

Head coach Scott Arniel was amazed but grounded after achieving this historic feat.

"I'm pretty amazed, a little bit. At the same time, these players, they do have to recognize that it's an amazing feat what they've done so far. But we'd like to just keep this going a little bit longer. But at the end of the day, they've got to be awfully proud of what they've done." Arniel said.

He stressed the importance of not getting caught up in the excitement and turning focus to the next opponent and game situation.

"It's historic but I just can't stress enough … it is about how we let last game go and move on to the next opponent. … The players have done a fantastic job of putting things in perspective in each game, each situation, and moving on to the next. I'd be awfully proud of what they've done."

The Jets also lead in power play percentage 42.1%, goals against average 2.14 and leading in total points scored by defensemen at 46 points.

Winnipeg Jets HC Scott Arniel praises team effort for the historic start

When asked about the key to the team's success, Arniel emphasized that it has been a total team effort. He noted that it's not just standout players, but contributions have come from up and down the lineup.

"It's real simple for me, it is such a team effort…. Arniel said. This isn't (Mark) Scheifele's line winning us every game. To me, this is 23 guys. This has been unbelievable in the sense of how everybody has contributed...The best answer I can give you is that this has really been a team run for us."

Arniel highlighted the team's commitment to details, shot blocking, defending and scoring timely goals as factors in their strong play. He mentioned how the Winnipeg Jets have found different ways to win close games this season, often rallying late to force overtime and secure two points.