Schmidt returns to lineup for Jets in Game 3, fellow defenceman Stanley to sit

By The Canadian Press on April 26, 2024.

Winnipeg Jets' (left to right) Neal Pionk, Nate Schmidt and Nino Niederreiter celebrate Schmidt's goal against the Anaheim Ducks during second period NHL action in Winnipeg, Friday, March 15, 2024. Head coach Rick Bowness says that Schmidt will be in the lineup for Game 3 on Friday night and fellow blueliner Logan Stanley will sit.THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

DENVER – The Winnipeg Jets are making a lineup change after splitting the first two games of their first-round NHL playoff series against the Colorado Avalanche.

Head coach Rick Bowness says that Nate Schmidt will be in the lineup for Game 3 on Friday night and fellow blueliner Logan Stanley will sit.

Schmidt was a healthy scratch for Winnipeg’s 7-6 win in Game 1 as well as the Jets’ 5-2 loss in Game 2 at Canada Life Centre.

He’s expected to play with Dylan Samberg. It’s the only lineup change for the Jets, who beat the Avalanche 7-0 in their last regular-season meeting at Ball Arena on April 13.

Colorado defenceman Samuel Girard (concussion) participated in the morning skate but will be a game-time decision.

Game 4 in the best-of-seven series is scheduled for Sunday afternoon. Winnipeg will host Game 5 on Tuesday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 26, 2024.