WINNIPEG — A crucial meeting last summer involving Mark Scheifele, Josh Morrissey, Adam Lowry, and coach Scott Arniel laid the groundwork for the current season.
Shortly after being appointed as the Winnipeg Jets` head coach, Arniel reached out to his captain and two assistant captains, all based in Calgary during the off-season. He proposed a face-to-face meeting.
In mid-August, the four convened at Mercato`s, an upscale Italian eatery, for an extended lunch. Their discussion centered on how the Jets, after consecutive regular seasons with strong performances followed by underwhelming first-round playoff exits, could evolve from a borderline playoff team into a true contender for the Stanley Cup.
Scheifele, Lowry, and Morrissey — veteran players with over ten years each in the organization — presented a united front to Arniel.
“Our message was clear: we are experienced players with a strong team, leadership, and talent. We want to be challenged to reach the next level,” Morrissey explained. “We expected him to coach us with the ambition of becoming a championship-caliber team.”
The players felt a higher standard of execution was necessary.
“Looking back at our progress, that meeting truly marked the beginning,” Lowry mentioned to Sportsnet.ca.
Throughout this season, Jets players and coaches have frequently emphasized their focus on habits. Their core principles are even displayed on the dressing room walls.
