Saskatchewan defenceman plays key role in team’s success
General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff says he believes there is more than just one thing helping the Winnipeg Jets success so far in the season.
“It is really hard to pinpoint one thing that has helped us get to where we are now,” he said, noting on some nights the power-play is strong, other nights it’s the penalty kill or the team’s defense that has helped them succeed.
The Jets sit at the top of the National Hockey League with a record of 39-14-3, totaling 81 points in 56 games.
Cheveldayoff gives a shout-out to two-time Vezina trophy winner Connor Hellebuyck. “On many nights it’s the strong goaltending we are fortunate as a team to be able to rely on”. He also noted that no one on the team was happy with a first-round playoff exit last season and this year they have the chance to prove something to themselves as a team. “I think everyone is embracing that,” he said.
New to the roster this season is Hadyn Fleury, a defenseman from Carlyle, Sask, who has also bought in. Having played 29 games and accumulating 6 points, Fleury said he’s really enjoying Winnipeg. “From the time my family and I got here, the organization has done everything to make us feel at home. It’s been a really special group to be a part of.”
While Winnipeg is not the first NHL team Fleury has played for, he is grateful to be able to continue to live out his dream of being a professional hockey player.
“When I was young, my dream was to play in the NHL. Being a dad now, I realize how special it is that my dream came true,” he said. Growing up where the rink was always open, he and his brother Cale, who is with the Seattle Kraken organization, spent a lot of the time on the ice and fell in love with the game.
Fleury knows that being in the line-up isn’t always a guarantee on such a strong, deep Jets roster but he feels he is doing his job to contribute to their success. Cheveldayoff agrees.
“Haydn has been a bright spot and a strong contributor for us,” Cheveldayoff said, praising Fleury’s ability to come into training camp with no guarantees regarding his role and earning every opportunity. “He suffered an injury which had him out of the lineup for several weeks, but he is healthy now and looking to finish the season strong.”
Long-time Jets fan Austin Lourenco, 20, from Stonewall, Manitoba, and a defenceman in the MMJHL, also appreciates Fleury’s game. “I enjoy watching him. He has high energy and a do-anything-to-win mentality. I’m looking forward to seeing him in the playoffs.” he said
Lourenco is enjoying being a fan of the Jets as a whole these days. “I love the Jets fan community coming together to cheer on the team. The league and fans in other cities continue to underestimate us but hopefully that will start to change.”
With the 4 Nations Face-Off coming up for several Jets and other players across the NHL, the league is now on a two-week break. Fleury and the Jets hope to continue their winning season when they take on the St. Louis Blues on Feb 22nd, 2025.
