Winnipeg Jets' Scheifele to Play in Game 6 Despite Family Tragedy

Winnipeg Jets’ star player Mark Scheifele will take to the ice for Game 6 against the Dallas Stars on Saturday night, as confirmed by coach Scott Arniel during his pregame media session. The decision comes after a somber event: Scheifele’s father, Brad Scheifele, passed away suddenly on Friday night. This news was relayed by Jets’ general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff prior to the team’s morning skate, initially casting doubt over Scheifele’s participation as the Jets face a crucial elimination game in the Western Conference semifinals.

Cheveldayoff explained that Arniel visited the team’s hotel to talk with Mark Scheifele earlier in the day. At that point, the decision regarding the 32-year-old forward’s presence in this critical match was still uncertain. However, Scheifele will, in fact, join his usual spot on the top line. “Our organization is fully supporting him and extending heartfelt condolences to his family. We also kindly request that his privacy, and that of his family, be respected,” remarked Cheveldayoff. On Thursday, Scheifele contributed a goal and an assist, propelling Winnipeg to a crucial 4-0 win over Dallas, keeping their playoff hopes alive, although the Stars are leading the best-of-seven series 3-2. Throughout the playoffs, Scheifele has been impressive, tallying four goals and ten points in ten games. He achieved career-highs with 48 assists and 87 points during the regular season, along with a league-leading 11 game-winning goals, having played in all 82 games of the season.