Gabriel Vilardi is set to make a significant comeback for the Winnipeg Jets as they face the St. Louis Blues in a pivotal Game 5 of the playoffs. He has been sidelined due to an upper-body injury but is eager to rejoin his line with Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor. The Jets have struggled in the series after winning the first two games at home, losing the latter pair by a combined score of 12-3.

Vilardi, who notched career-highs in goals and points this season, will be expected to contribute immediately. Coach Scott Arniel has given him the green light, indicating that there will be no restrictions on his play. His return comes at a crucial time, especially with the Jets' power play faltering, where they scored only 2 goals on 12 attempts in the series. Vilardi’s power-play skills could offer the dynamic boost the Jets desperately need.

Gabriel Vilardi is set to return for the Winnipeg Jets in a crucial Game 5 against the St. Louis Blues, aiming to positively impact the team's playoff performance. Acknowledging his absence due to an undisclosed upper-body injury, Vilardi emphasized his intention to support his line partners, Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor. As a key player, he contributed significantly in the regular season with 61 points in 71 games.

Despite the Jets' uneven playoff performance, scoring just 2 goals on the power play, coach Scott Arniel expressed confidence in Vilardi's readiness, indicating that he won't face restrictions as the intensity rises in the playoffs.

Gabriel Vilardi returns for the Winnipeg Jets in Game 5 against the St. Louis Blues after a month-long absence due to an upper-body injury. The 25-year-old forward had a breakout season with career-highs in goals (27), assists (34), and points (61) before his injury. His presence is crucial as the Jets aim to regain momentum in a best-of-seven series tied at two games apiece. With Vilardi practicing on the top line alongside Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele, his return could significantly boost Winnipeg’s offensive capabilities. The Jets, who started strong with two home wins, will look to regain their dominance in a pivotal playoff clash.

As the NHL playoffs heat up, injury news remains a key focus for teams and fantasy players alike. Marcus Johansson of the Minnesota Wild is showing positive signs after leaving Game 4 due to a lower-body injury, and coach John Hynes expressed optimism about his return for Game 5. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Lightning's Brandon Hagel is facing uncertainty after exiting early against the Florida Panthers following a hit. In Toronto, John Tavares, who briefly entered concussion protocol, also appears ready to play, while Auston Matthews is expected to join him after taking a maintenance day. The Washington Capitals might welcome Aliaksei Protas back after a foot injury sidelined him since early April. Lastly, the Winnipeg Jets are keeping an eye on Gabriel Vilardi, who is inching closer to a return after missing games due to an upper-body injury.

Connor Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets' goaltender, remains confident despite being pulled during the last two playoff games. As a Vezina Trophy finalist, he emphasizes his readiness for Game 5 against the St. Louis Blues, stating, 'Win the next one' is the priority. Hellebuyck aims to regain form after a challenging series, where he has a save percentage of .817. Jets head coach Scott Arniel noted that the recent goaltending performance has swung in favor of the Blues.

Backup Eric Comrie filled in for Hellebuyck and performed admirably, but the Jets' defense must improve, particularly regarding shot-blocking and providing better support. Hellebuyck, a two-time Vezina winner, is determined to focus on what worked during the regular season, where he recorded career-best stats. With Gabriel Vilardi potentially returning from injury, the Jets look to regain momentum in the series.