By: Winnipeg Tribune Staff Writer
Winnipeg, APril 5, 2024 - A new chapter is about to begin after the Canada Life Centre erupted in thunderous applause as the Jets clinched their sixth playoff appearance since 2017-18.
In a thrilling showdown against the Calgary Flames, Gabriel Vilardi etched his name into Winnipeg Jets history with a hat trick, propelling the team to a 5-2 victory and securing their coveted playoff berth.
Vilardi's remarkable performance, marking his first career hat trick, set the tone for the evening's triumph. Nikolaj Ehlers and Tyler Toffoli joined the scoring frenzy, while Connor Hellebuyck showcased his goaltending prowess with an impressive 31 saves, frustrating the Flames' offensive onslaught.
The road to the playoffs hasn't been without its challenges for Winnipeg and as the regular season winds down, the Jets are gearing up for a series of challenging matchups on the road starting with a clash against the Minnesota Wild on Saturday afternoon.