Wheeler scores 2 to lead Jets in 4-1 win over Blackhawks

Updated Feb. 12, 2023 1:40 a.m. ET

Associated Press

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — Blake Wheeler had two goals an an assist as the Winnipeg Jets beat the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1 on Saturday night.

Defenseman Josh Morrissey had a goal and an assist, and Mark Scheifele also scored to help Winnipeg win its second straight. Connor Hellebuyck had 31 saves as the Jets completed four-game sweep of the season series with the Blackhawks.

Tyler Johnson scored for Chicago, and Petr Mrazek stopped 24 shots.

After a scoreless first period, Morrissey got the Jets on the scoreboard at 1:16 of the second with an unassisted backhand shot from the high slot.

The Jets doubled their lead during a power play when Kyle Connor fired a one-timer at the net and the puck went in off Wheeler’s skate at 7:33.

Scheifele made it 3-0 with a one-timer with 7:41 left in the second after Wheeler sent him a quick pass to the high slot.

Chicago had its third power play of the night late in the middle period, but again came up empty on three shots at Hellebuyck.

Johnson got the Blackhawks on the board after he reached out his stick and swept a loose puck around Hellebuyck’s skate at 2:08 of the third.

The Blackhawks ramped up their energy after the goal, but the Jets tightened up on defense.

Mrazek was pulled for the extra attacker with three minutes remaining, but Hellebuyck smothered a close-in shot and Wheeler scored into the empty net with 25 seconds left to seal the win.

DIVISION DOMINANCE

Winnipeg is 14-4-0 against their Central Division foes this season, which is tops in the division. The Jets have also won nine of their past 10 games against division rivals.

UP NEXT

Blackhawks: At Montreal on Tuesday night.

Jets: Host Seattle on Tuesday night.

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