Winnipeg Jets To Be Without Two Forwards

When the Winnipeg Jets return to action on December 27th, they will be without two of their forwards. Andrew Copp and Kristian Vesalainen have entered COVID-19 protocol.

With the rise of COVID-19 cases in the league, the Jets were actually one of the rare teams spared by it over the last couple weeks. Yet, that now has changed and they will be shorthanded once the holiday break is completed.

Copp is more notable of the pair and the Jets will surely miss him in their lineup. In 30 contests this season, the 27-year-old versatile forward has seven goals and 20 points. With that, he currently sports a plus-7 rating. It will be hard to replace his production in the lineup, especially when remembering that captain Blake Wheeler is out with a long-term injury.

Vesalainen hasn't had the best of years with the Jets this season. In 26 games, he has two goals and an even rating. The 2017 first-round pick was once viewed as having top-six potential, but he hasn't come close to that just yet. However, he is still only 22 years old, so perhaps we will see his offensive production go up as the season progresses.

Nevertheless, here's to hoping these two are able to come back right after their 10 day quarantines ends.