Sergei Belski – USA TODAY Sports
The Winnipeg Jets got the 2013-14 season off to a good start on Tuesday night, as they got a 5-4 win against the Edmonton Oilers. A Jets team that has seemed to be only a piece or two away from a playoff berth the past two seasons got a strong showing from some of its top young stars, especially rookie defenseman Jacob Trouba. In his first career game, Trouba not only scored his first career goal and had an assist, but he also played 25 minutes to lead the team in time on ice.
Trouba scored the game-tying goal in the third period before Michael Frolik‘s second tally of the game put the Jets ahead for good, but the young blueliner’s contributions went far beyond the scoresheet. He played nearly three minute on the power play, and more than four minutes while his team was shorthanded. The youngster’s time on ice was impressive enough, but the faith the Jets have put in him this early into his career shows they believe he is a special player. Trouba was selected ninth overall in the 2012 draft, and starred in his first and only collegiate campaign with the University of Michigan Wolverines last season.
Trouba wasn’t the only young player to have a big impact for the Jets, as 2011 first round pick (seventh overall) Mark Scheifele netted his second career goal in just his 12th game. The season may be young, but either one of these players could be considered an early candidate for Calder Trophy consideration, and that’s great news for the Jets.
Jonathan Katje is an NHL featured columnist for Rant Sports. You can follow him on Twitter or add him to your circles on Google Plus.
