Winnipeg — Dylan DeMelo made it clear: the Jets are not resting on their laurels after winning the Presidents` Trophy.
Initially hinting at it when questioned about the Winnipeg Jets securing the Presidents` Trophy, DeMelo eventually articulated their true ambition.
The veteran defenseman was asked about the sense of accomplishment in the Jets becoming the first Canadian team since the 2011-12 Vancouver Canucks to clinch the Presidents` Trophy.
“No, not really, to be honest,” he admitted following a 4-1 defeat to the Edmonton Oilers. “Our aim is to be the first Canadian team since `93 to lift the Cup. That`s our focus.”
These direct remarks encapsulate the driving force behind their exceptional regular season performance.
Throughout the season, the Jets` aspirations have gone beyond regular-season achievements or a single playoff series victory.
After consecutive seasons ending in first-round playoff exits despite strong regular seasons, Winnipeg has been diligently working on refining their gameplay to maximize their chances of winning the Stanley Cup.
“From the outset, we`ve fully embraced our style of play. The team`s maturity and collective growth have led to the understanding that solid defense is key to success. Perhaps in the past, we relied more on high-scoring, back-and-forth games, which ultimately didn`t serve us when it mattered most,” DeMelo explained. “However, we`ve now gained control and are comfortable in tight, crucial games. We are minimizing self-inflicted errors. It`s the culmination of these factors, and we are still evolving. We are not yet the finished article, and we need to elevate our game further to achieve our ultimate goal.”
The past two seasons were about redefining the Jets` playing identity. This season is about executing it flawlessly at the highest level. The training phase is over, and the team is embracing the challenge.
The latest episode of “Runway,” the Jets` own documentary series, aptly titled “We Want the Stanley Cup,” highlights this ambition.
Fans have recognized the team`s season-long dedication, evidenced by the resounding ovation at Canada Life Centre when the Presidents` Trophy win was announced, overshadowing past playoff disappointments.
“We will still be judged on our performance from Game 83 onwards,” Jets coach Scott Arniel noted. “There`s still much to play for, and we hope for a long and successful journey lasting over two months.”
Despite the perceived curse associated with the Presidents` Trophy — with no winner since the 2012-13 Chicago Blackhawks going on to win the Stanley Cup — there are tangible advantages.
“Reaching the Stanley Cup Finals would also grant us home-ice advantage,” Arniel added. “That`s a significant benefit.”
