The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Jonathon Naylor Editor The Winnipeg Jets are locked in a tight battle to bring the NHL playoffs back to Manitoba for the first time in 16 years. Heading into a crucial home game against Buffalo Monday night, Winnipeg was clinging to the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. With 70 points, the Jets were just one point ahead of the Capitals and two points ahead of both the Lightning and Sabres. And all three teams had a game in hand. Even the Maple Leafs, who have struggled mightily in recent weeks, were just three points back of the Jets, and they too had a game in hand. Winnipeg had fallen four points behind the Panthers for top spot in the Southeast Division, a position that would guarantee them one of the top three slots in the East. The Jets will need to improve on a dismal road record (11-17-4 before Monday's game) in order to remain in post-season contention. They have fared far better at the MTS Centre (20-10-4). Winnipeg is in Vancouver tomorrow and in Calgary Friday before enjoying a four-day break. They host the Dallas Stars a week from today. While critics have poked holes in the Jets' offence, it should be noted hat Winnipeg is not far behind the league-leading Rangers in terms of production.
