The Winnipeg Jets utilized their practice day to work out some knots in their game after a 2-4-0 West Coast road trip. They shape up against the Columbus Blue Jackets tomorrow night at Canada Life Centre as they look to continue their winning ways.
Some big developments out of practice this morning: Morgan Barron was skating in a regular jersey. This gives the Jets the needed boost to their depth, but the question with Barron and Cole Koepke nearing a return is who will be sent down to the Manitoba Moose? The Jets have Brad Lambert, Nikita Chibrikov, and Parker Ford on the roster; it could be a combination of two or all three heading back down to Manitoba.
Barrron was considered week-to-week after being “banged up in the third period,” according to head coach Scott Arniel. He suffered the undisclosed injury in the Jets’ November 1st 5-2 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The 26-year-old was off to a hot start this season, posting six points (3G, 3A) in 12 games played. Barron found himself being a fourth-line right wing lock over the past few seasons, but this season’s elevation to third-line centre proved to be most effective given the Jets’ need for centre depth.
With Barron still considered week-to-week and no official update given on his status, the skate in the regular jersey is a strong indication that he could be returning in the Jets’ current three-game home stretch.
The Jets take on the Columbus Blue Jackets tomorrow with puck drop scheduled for 7:00 pm CST.