The Winnipeg Jets are a professional ice hockey team based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They compete in the Central Division of the Western Conference in the National Hockey League (NHL). The team’s history is somewhat convoluted, involving relocations and a return to a previously vacated market, adding to their unique identity within the league.
The current Jets franchise was established in 1999 as the Atlanta Thrashers. Plagued by ownership issues and struggling on-ice performance, the Thrashers failed to gain significant traction in the Atlanta market. In 2011, True North Sports & Entertainment purchased the Thrashers with the intention of relocating them to Winnipeg. This marked the return of NHL hockey to Winnipeg after a 15-year absence, following the departure of the original Winnipeg Jets to Phoenix in 1996 (who are now the Arizona Coyotes).
The excitement surrounding the return of the Jets to Winnipeg was palpable. Season tickets sold out within minutes, and every game at the Canada Life Centre (formerly Bell MTS Place) has been a near-constant sellout since their arrival. The fanbase is known for its passionate and unwavering support, creating an electric atmosphere for home games. The team’s name, logo, and colors are a nod to the original Jets, further connecting the current team to Winnipeg’s hockey history.
On the ice, the Jets have experienced varying degrees of success. After a few seasons of rebuilding, they emerged as a strong contender in the Western Conference in the late 2010s, boasting a high-powered offense led by players like Blake Wheeler, Mark Scheifele, and Nikolaj Ehlers. They reached the Western Conference Final in 2018, losing to the Vegas Golden Knights. While they haven’t replicated that level of success since, they remain a competitive team with aspirations of contending for the Stanley Cup.
The Jets organization places a strong emphasis on community involvement, participating in numerous charitable initiatives throughout Winnipeg and Manitoba. They understand their role extends beyond the ice and strive to make a positive impact on the lives of their fans. The team’s ownership is committed to the long-term success of the franchise in Winnipeg, fostering a strong relationship with the community and investing in the team’s future.
While the Stanley Cup has eluded them, the Winnipeg Jets represent more than just a hockey team to the city. They symbolize a return to tradition, a source of civic pride, and a unifying force for a community with a deep passion for the sport. The Jets continue to strive for excellence on and off the ice, hoping to bring a championship to Winnipeg and etch their names into the city’s rich hockey history.