Jets' GM and coach are proud of what players accomplished, but want improvements
'The first thing we did was that we complimented them,' Arniel said Wednesday as he and Cheveldayoff held their final media availability.
'We told them how proud we were of the year we had, the things we accomplished as a group. Just the fact that we won the Presidents' Trophy, that we were consistent for 82 games, all those things that we did.'
The Jets won the trophy with a franchise-record 56 wins and NHL-best 116 points in the regular season, but were eliminated from the playoffs in Game 6 of their second-round series with the Dallas Stars by a 2-1 overtime loss last Saturday.
It was one round better than the previous two seasons, but disappointing for a group that was aiming to hoist the Stanley Cup.
The next steps are something Arniel plans to discuss in-depth with each player during the upcoming two weeks after he gets input from his assistants.
'There's a lot of things for me that happened over the course of this playoffs that are extreme positives,' Arniel said. 'There's some things again that we're going to have to grill our group on to get better at, so that when we hit this again next year that we're better prepared for it to have the outcome fall in our favour.'
Jets captain Adam Lowry is confident players will dig deep to reach another level next season.
'There's a lot of optimism that with another good summer, guys really pushing to get better to work on their game and to find ways to improve, that we can come back next year and put ourselves in a spot to be successful again,' he said.
'Put ourselves in a spot to go on another playoff run and hopefully this one ends in late June instead of late May.'
Arniel, who's up for the Jack Adams Trophy for the league's top head coach, just finished his first year as Winnipeg's bench boss. He was associate coach the previous two seasons to now-retired Rick Bowness.
'One of the things that came through in our exit meetings in talking to some of the players, there was the accountability that (Arniel) was able to hold the players to,' Cheveldayoff said.
'The fairness. That word came out several times in conversations with the players. Hard but fair.'
Cheveldayoff said he believes the team can improve again next season.
'We're fortunate we have a real strong core of guys that are going to push, pull and prod,' he said. 'A lot of different guys that are on the good side of (age) 30, I guess, in the sense that there's still capacity for them to grow.
'That's the group of guys that we're going to challenge to help take us to that next level. And again, it can't be underestimated, we have the best goaltender in the world.'
Connor Hellebuyck is likely to win his second consecutive Vezina Trophy as the league's top goalie, and third of his career. He's also a finalist for the Hart Trophy as most valuable player.
He boosted his franchise record with 47 regular-season wins and had the league's best goals-against average (2.00) and most shutouts (eight).
But Hellebuyck struggled at times during the post-season, including being pulled in three road games against the Blues. The Jets never won a road game in their series against St. Louis or Dallas.
Winnipeg has eight pending unrestricted free agents, including winger Nikolaj Ehlers, who's playing for Denmark at the men's world hockey championship.
Ehlers recorded 24 goals and 63 points in 69 regular-season games. He added five goals and two assists in eight playoff games after returning from injury.
'I think I'd echo the statement of everyone in this room, that we'd love to see Nikky back,' Lowry said. 'He's a huge part of our team. He's a game-breaker. He's great in this room.'
Lowry and top-line winger Kyle Connor are both heading into the final year of their contracts and could be offered extensions.
'That's kind of how I picture myself, as a Winnipeg Jet for life,' Lowry said. 'I love the city, love playing in front of these fans and I think that's something that hopefully we can take steps towards getting that out of the way this summer.'
Cheveldayoff wasn't dismissing that possibility – for both Lowry and Connor.
'I believe they're a big part of our success, and want to keep it that way,' he said.
The Jets also have six pending restricted free agents such as defenceman Dylan Samberg and forwards Gabe Vilardi and Morgan Barron.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 21, 2025.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Globe and Mail
21 minutes ago
- Globe and Mail
Hockey Canada, NHL could clear or sanction players after sexual-assault verdict
On Thursday, the five former Canadian world junior hockey players charged with sexual assault after a 2018 celebratory gala in London, Ont., will learn their fates at the hands of the criminal justice system. But that won't be the final word: Both the National Hockey League and Hockey Canada still have matters to resolve with the men. Each organization conducted its own parallel investigation into the allegations, but when police laid charges in February, 2024, the league and national sport organization held off making any final determination until the end of the trial. Now that those processes may finally continue – barring any appeal in the case – some or all of the players could be excluded from the highest levels of professional hockey, or barred from ever playing for Canada again. If the probes don't find the players breached the league's or Hockey Canada's rules, though, the men may not face any serious professional consequences at all. The case has brought scrutiny to how sports organizations in Canada should proceed when athletes allegedly engage in behaviour that is not only inappropriate, but potentially criminal. It has also offered the public a rare glimpse into how the country's safe sport regime makes decisions, the mechanics of which are normally shrouded in secrecy. What to know about the Hockey Canada trial ahead of the verdict The Hockey Canada sexual-assault trial is nearly over. We're answering your questions after the verdict Shortly after the alleged incident in June, 2018, Hockey Canada hired lawyer Danielle Robitaille for an independent investigation into whether the players had contravened its code of conduct. She conducted a raft of interviews, including with four of the five players who were ultimately charged, and filed a report with the organization in the fall of 2022. In November, 2023, Hockey Canada announced that an independent adjudicative panel held a hearing on the matter and rendered a decision, but an appeal had been filed. No other information was released, including what the panel had decided. Hockey Canada commissioned a new arm's-length panel to hear the appeal. Ten months later, in September, 2024, the organization announced that panel had granted a motion to adjourn the proceedings until the criminal trial was over. The five accused are not the only ones directly affected by the pause. Hockey Canada suspended the entire 2018 world junior team when the incident came to light in June, 2022 – preventing them from playing, coaching, officiating, or volunteering with any programs overseen by the organization. The players remain in limbo until the conclusion of the independent appeal process. Experts say when a matter could be subject to a criminal investigation, sports organizations should hold off on their own inquiry until after the police probe. 'You don't want to taint the criminal matter,' said Hilary Findlay, a retired associate professor of sports management at Brock University, and a founding partner of the consulting firm Sport Law. Independent investigators 'could inappropriately question people. Somebody could make a false accusation that could have repercussions,' she said, adding that any number of things could happen that might bleed into the criminal investigation. In a ruling last fall on a pretrial motion, Justice Bruce Thomas noted that Ms. Robitaille had, in fact, suspended her investigation in late July, 2018, and then resumed it after police determined that there weren't sufficient grounds to continue their probe, in February, 2019. She then shut down her inquiry again in September, 2020, after failing to secure an interview with the complainant. But in July, 2022, both the London Police Service and Ms. Robitaille reopened their investigations after a public outcry. Hockey Canada threatened a lifetime ban on any player who didn't speak to Ms. Robitaille. Justice Thomas noted she was aware that the information she gathered could be shared with police. Ms. Robitaille's findings did end up spilling into public view during the trial. However, much of the evidence and material she uncovered in her 2022 interviews with three of the players – including an admission by Dillon Dubé that he had slapped the complainant on her naked buttock – was ultimately ruled inadmissible because they were obtained under threat of the lifetime ban by Hockey Canada. While that threat was unusual, Canada's safe sport regime has other sanctions at its disposal to compel participation. Signy Arnason, the executive director of safe sport for the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, or CCES, noted that those accused of breaching a code of conduct 'can choose to not participate' in a probe. 'But that doesn't stop anything.' If those individuals are found guilty, they do not have the right to an appeal. The NHL also launched its own investigation that concluded in 2023, but the results were not made public. Though the league's commissioner, Gary Bettman, denounced the alleged behaviour – calling the claims 'disgusting, horrific, and unacceptable' in an interview with The Globe and Mail in April – the league said it won't discuss its investigation or potential consequences while the matter is before the courts. In April, the CCES took over responsibility for administering the safe sport file, outlined in the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport, or UCCMS, for federally funded national sport organizations such as Hockey Canada. The accused players may face sanctions under the UCCMS, regardless of the outcome of the criminal trial. 'The standard of proof, and what you need to show culpability, differs between the two processes,' said Ms. Findlay. A criminal conviction requires evidence beyond a reasonable doubt. The threshold for proof in the Canadian safe sport regime, on the other hand, is lower. The regime abides by what is known as a 'balance of probabilities,' meaning an investigator only has to be at least 51 per cent certain that the alleged behaviour occurred. Hockey Canada verdict could break new ground on sexual consent Gary Bettman won't say if Hockey Canada players on trial for sexual assault could return to NHL if acquitted Both the probes commissioned by NHL and Hockey Canada have unfolded behind a heavy curtain of secrecy. Investigations into behaviour that occurs under the auspices of national sport organizations are not released to the public. Only serious sanctions, such as a temporary or permanent suspension, are announced. Ms. Arnason stressed it is imperative for investigations like these to remain secret. National sport organizations, and the people who work for them, can make or break athletes' careers, which creates a disincentive to report maltreatment if people fear being identified as a complainant or whistleblower. 'People want to remain, in many instances, confidential,' she said. Taylor McKee, the director of the Centre for Sport Capacity at Brock University, broadly agrees, though he argued that the public deserves more transparency than the system currently offers. He outlined a potential scenario in which a coach is alleged to have violated what is known in sports as the one-on-one protocol, which ensures adults aren't left alone with minors. The coach may admit to breaking the rule, but that would not normally be disclosed outside the independent probe, since it is not subject to serious sanction. However, it would be in the public interest to disclose the coach's admission, regardless of its implications as per the code. 'If they can find statements of fact that are agreed upon, even by the accused,' it's in the interest of the Canadian hockey establishment to make those public, Mr. McKee said.
Winnipeg Free Press
an hour ago
- Winnipeg Free Press
Pedal power for Parkinson's awareness
Tim Hague vividly remembers the day his doctor delivered the life-changing news: he had Parkinson's disease. 'He said, 'You can plan on 10 to 15 good years,' the 60-year-old Winnipegger recalled in an interview with the Free Press on Wednesday. 'Well, I'm 14 years and five months into this thing, and I don't feel like I'm at the end of my good years yet. And I attribute that to exercise.' Hague, a retired nurse, has built an impressive physical regimen — one that once helped him and his son, Tim Jr., win the inaugural season of The Amazing Race Canada in 2013. Staying fit has also become the cornerstone of his fundraising efforts for U-Turn Parkinson's, the Winnipeg-based wellness centre he founded to help others living with the disease. 'It is the fastest growing neurological disease in the world,' said Hague. 'There's over 11 million people now with it worldwide — including more than 7,000 in Manitoba — and that's expected to double by 2040.' Hague really put his plans in motion last summer with the first-ever Team 81 Ride for Parkinson's, which teamed up with Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor. Unfortunately, the two men share a common bond — Connor's late grandfather and father both had the disease. 'You sometimes think people who are of a certain stature — and he's a big stature — don't have time for this sort of thing. But he's been 100 per cent present,' said Hague. 'He is engaged with Parkinson's, and it's very clear. Because this is close to his heart, and he wants to make a lasting impression.' The inaugural ride featured 24 cyclists, 13 of whom completed a gruelling five-day, 550-kilometre trek from Russell to Falcon Lake. Ten of those riders are living with Parkinson's. JOHN WOODS / FREE PRESS FILES The second annual Team 81 Ride For Parkinson's at Assiniboine Park will be held on Aug. 1 — or 8/1, matching Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor's jersey number. JOHN WOODS / FREE PRESS FILES The second annual Team 81 Ride For Parkinson's at Assiniboine Park will be held on Aug. 1 — or 8/1, matching Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor's jersey number. 'To see their determination, their smiles of accomplishment at the end of every day, to know their needs firsthand — we were stopping so they could take their medication and rest to ensure they were physically capable — it was incredible to witness and be a part of,' said Kevin Donnelly, senior vice-president of True North Sports & Entertainment. Donnelly has a personal connection to the cause. He's known Hague for years, and the two are about to become family — Hague's daughter, Jordana, is marrying Donnelly's son, Chris, in September. He also played a key role in getting Connor involved after the death of Connor's father, Joe, in 2021, 'Kyle came to Mark (Chipman, co-owner of the Jets) and said, 'I'm ready to reach out, how do I get connected, what's the right organization?'' said Donnelly. 'And this really began to accelerate fast.' Last year's debut event raised more than $141,000 for U-Turn Parkinson's, which uses exercise and wellness programs to support those living with the disease. 'It was absolutely fantastic,' Hague said. And, admittedly, a bit too ambitious. In response, organizers have scaled things back this year, with the goal of making an even bigger impact. Next Friday, Aug. 1 — or 8/1, matching Connor's jersey number — has been officially designated Ride for Parkinson's Day in Manitoba. The second annual Team 81 Ride for Parkinson's will feature a single-day, 50-kilometre route beginning and ending at Assiniboine Park. 'A more manageable ride,' said Hague. Participants will be welcomed at the finish line with a family-friendly celebration, including a bike parade, decorating station, DJ, face painting, mascots and more. Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries is sponsoring the bike parade, which aims to 'turn heads and show powerful support for those living with Parkinson's.' Canadian Tire is sponsoring the ride. Hague emphasized that people of all ages and abilities are welcome — even those who don't want to hop on a bike. Parkinson's is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, often beginning gradually before worsening over time. It impairs co-ordination, balance and strength, and is the world's leading cause of permanent disability. Frank Franklin II / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS FILES Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor's late grandfather and father both had Parkinson's disease. Frank Franklin II / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS FILES Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor's late grandfather and father both had Parkinson's disease. Connor issued a statement encouraging the public to consider sponsoring a rider or making a donation of '$81, $810, $8,100 or any other amount you can donate.' 'Every dollar helps,' said Connor. 'Currently, there is no cure, however exercise has been proven to slow the progression of the disease and an event like the Team 81 Ride For Parkinson's can bring awareness to the benefits of exercise.' All proceeds go towards U-Turn Parkinson's, which had been operating out of a church basement but recently moved into Southdale Community Centre. Hague's hope is to one day find a permanent facility of their own. 'We're moving along,' he said. 'We're not even quite a month in, but it's a brand new addition to the community centre and it's absolutely beautiful. It's way more space for us, a way more welcoming space and more suited to what we do.' For more information about the organization and/or the event, visit call 204-510-4869, or email info@ 'There's nobody else in Manitoba that's doing Parkinson's-focused therapy,' said Donnelly. 'When you think about other ailments like heart and stroke and cancer and all these things that are so deserving, there is such a huge infrastructure that exists that isn't there for Parkinson's-afflicted people. So there's a real catch-up that has to happen with this diagnosis and with this community.' X and Bluesky: @mikemcintyrewpg Mike McIntyreReporter Mike McIntyre is a sports reporter whose primary role is covering the Winnipeg Jets. After graduating from the Creative Communications program at Red River College in 1995, he spent two years gaining experience at the Winnipeg Sun before joining the Free Press in 1997, where he served on the crime and justice beat until 2016. Read more about Mike. Every piece of reporting Mike produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the Free Press's tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about Free Press's history and mandate, and learn how our newsroom operates. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
Vancouver Sun
2 hours ago
- Vancouver Sun
Canucks: No adieu Aatu Raty, feisty Finn should become roster regular next season
Never have so many choice words by Aatu Raty meant so much. 'Being in the lineup is something I never take for granted,' the Vancouver Canucks ' depth centre told Postmedia during his quest to be an NHL mainstay. 'You always want to be the player who is playing, if you have the lead, or trying to get a goal at the end.' That sounded great, but roster reality is more than prose and perspiration. Raty is coming off a solid season with 24 goals split between Abbotsford (17) and Vancouver (7), but the downside was AHL playoff injuries that limited him to six games with the Calder Cup champions. However, 40 points in 43 games didn't go unnoticed. Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sunrise will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. 'Aatu had a strong year in Abbotsford and showed some promise when called up,' said Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin. 'It was another good step in his development as he continues to learn and grow as a pro. We expect him to compete for a job in Vancouver.' Depending on how the Canucks' solve their riddle in the middle to support Elias Pettersson and Filip Chytil — especially with the Pius Suter departure — a centre addition may mean Teddy Blueger drops to the fourth line and Raty becomes the 13th forward. But if Blueger is packaged in trade for a pivot, Raty should get that spot. Then again, if it's a free-agent acquisition in versatile centre/winger Jack Roslovic, 28, that would be another revolving roster story. And Raty knows about the career carousel. 'Three years ago, I played 15 NHL games (12 with the New York Islanders and three with Canucks) and thought I belonged,' he recalled. 'My skating is better and I'll keeping working at it and the stick battles.' Raty showed improvement last fall. He won 14 of 18 faceoffs against the Seattle Kraken in a Sept. 24 preseason test, and three nights later in Calgary, looked like a wily veteran by finishing off a third-period scoring chance with a deft toe drag in the slot and picking the top corner. What really works for the 22-year-old Raty is size, feistiness, face-off efficiency, not being waiver-exempt next season, and getting a one-way, two-year, $1.55-million US contract extension last month. More importantly, there's potential for a waiver claim, if the Canucks try to get him through for an AHL assignment to Abbotsford. Same goes for forwards Linus Karlsson and Arshdeep Bains , but that's a story for another day. With Raty, what you see in the 6-foot-2, 190-pound pivot is what you get, and most of it is good. He's not a burner, and keeps work on explosiveness and pace, but is most deadly on the draw. His 57.4 per cent face-off success in 33 NHL games last season ranked second to J.T. Miller , who went 58.6 per cent in 40 outings before being dealt to the New York Rangers. Raty is a natural for defensive-zone faceoffs, especially on the penalty kill, and has teased of more offence. He was effective in an alignment with Dakota Joshua and Kiefer Sherwood in the quest for a wild-card playoff spot. Raty was quicker and more engaged, and a spurt of five goals in eight games was notable. So is dedication. Raty is often last off the practice ice to keeping honing his skills, which drew plaudits from former Canucks bench boss Rick Tocchet . He was enamoured last fall by Raty's willingness to learn. 'When we first got him, his skating was just okay,' admitted Tocchet. 'The development guys and the Abbotsford guys did a helluva job with him, because to me he's a different player. I see another level. He looks fast out there. And every drill he does he goes 100 per cent. 'Even in the morning skate I told him he had to slow down a bit because you want to save it for tonight. I like that attitude from a young kid. The biggest thing with young guys is to remember it's the NHL. They get the puck and right away they go into awareness mode. They start to look around and don't move their feet.' Scoring chances often come from puck possession faceoffs, which Raty has taken to another level of creativeness. He worked with Abbotsford head coach Manny Malhotra for success in the dot and adds his own twist. 'I have a technique not a lot of guys have, but Manny has good tips on playing the opponent and the refs,' said Raty. 'He's big on having your own territory on the dot and owing it. They're good to implement, even though I might not use them right away. 'Your best go-to technique may not work against a certain centre, and I can use something I got from Manny to mess up the guy's timing.' When the left-shot Raty takes weak-side draws, he flips his stick to increase the percentage of right-side success. He turns the right hand over on his left-handed stick to win draws to the backhand. It has worked. bkuzma@
