WINNIPEG, Manitoba -- After a commitment throughout the organization to make the playoffs this year, the Winnipeg Jets are making early-season believers out of their long-suffering fans.
Going into a Thursday night home tilt against the Dallas Stars, the Jets are 6-3-2 with 14 points. The Stars (7-5-0) are tied in points with the Jets but have played one more game.
Perhaps the Jets' most pleasant surprise is the play of goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, who struggled mightily in his sophomore season last year. A vigorous summer of training is paying early dividends as the 24-year-old is among the league leaders in the key goalie categories.