Full Breakdown
Winnipeg Jets End 11-Game Losing Streak with Victory Over Los Angeles Kings
1/10/2026, 8:26:03 AM
Jets' Long Struggle Comes to an End
The Winnipeg Jets (16-22-5) secured a decisive 5-1 victory against the Los Angeles Kings (18-15-10) on January 9, 2026, ending their 11-game winless streak. This marked the Jets' first win since December 13, 2025, and their longest losing streak since relocating from Atlanta to Winnipeg in 2011. The Jets had previously struggled with a record of 0-7-4 during the skid, which included a recent 4-3 loss to the Edmonton Oilers just a day prior.
Key Performers and Game Highlights
Mark Scheifele led the Jets with two goals, while Vladislav Namestnikov and Jonathan Toews also contributed significantly, each ending lengthy goal droughts. Namestnikov scored his first goal in 29 games, and Toews ended a 26-game scoring slump. Cole Koepke added another goal, and Gabriel Vilardi and Cole Perfetti each recorded two assists. Eric Comrie was solid in net, making 23 saves.
The Jets jumped to an early lead with Namestnikov scoring just 1:31 into the game. Koepke and Toews followed with goals, establishing a 3-0 lead by the second period. Although Quinton Byfield scored for the Kings, Scheifele's power-play goal and another late goal sealed the Jets' victory.
Kings' Struggles Continue
The Kings entered the game without key players, including captain Anze Kopitar and forwards Trevor Moore and Corey Perry, due to injuries and personal matters. Despite their recent offensive improvements, the Kings could not capitalize against a desperate Jets team. Darcy Kuemper allowed five goals on 16 shots before being replaced by Anton Forsberg in the third period.
Official Statements & Responses
Jets head coach Scott Arniel expressed relief at the end of the losing streak, emphasizing the importance of maintaining aggressive play. "We can’t afford to sit back on anything," he stated. Meanwhile, Kings forward Kevin Fiala acknowledged the team's need to adapt in the absence of key players, stating, "It stinks to have those guys out, but other guys have to step up."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, concerns remain for the Jets regarding their overall performance this season. Critics point to the team's previous struggles and the need for consistent offensive depth beyond their top players. The Jets have been criticized for their inability to maintain leads and for mental lapses during crucial moments in games.
What's Next
Following this victory, the Jets will host the New Jersey Devils on January 11, while the Kings will face the Edmonton Oilers the following night. Both teams will look to build on their respective performances as the season progresses.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have to stay aggressive; we can’t afford to sit back on anything.” — Scott Arniel, Head Coach, Winnipeg Jets
- “It (stinks) to have those guys out, but other guys have to step up,” — Kevin Fiala, Forward, Los Angeles Kings
- “It's a lot of mental mistakes by all of us.” — Neal Pionk, Defenseman, Winnipeg Jets
- “We just sat on our heels,” — Neal Pionk, Defenseman, Winnipeg Jets
This victory provides a much-needed boost for the Jets as they aim to recover from a challenging season, while the Kings will need to regroup and find ways to overcome their injury challenges.
