Panthers Host Jets in Key Homestand Opener

Florida looks to bounce back from back-to-back losses as they welcome Winnipeg to Sunrise.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 5:55am

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The Florida Panthers (28-22-3) return home to Amerant Bank Arena to open a crucial three-game homestand against the struggling Winnipeg Jets (21-25-7). Florida is looking to rebound after dropping their last two games, including a 5-4 heartbreaker against the St. Louis Blues. Meanwhile, the Jets are coming off a 4-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning. This will be the second and final meeting of the regular season between these two clubs, with the Panthers having won the first matchup 2-1 in Winnipeg.

Why it matters

The Panthers are currently eight points out of a playoff spot and desperately need to pick up points at home during this homestand. A win over the Jets would be a big boost as they try to climb back into the postseason picture. For Winnipeg, this is an opportunity to pick up a road victory against a struggling opponent.

The details

The Panthers rallied from a two-goal deficit in their last game against the Blues, with Matthew Tkachuk scoring a pair of goals. However, they ultimately fell 5-4 on a late power-play goal by St. Louis. Winnipeg, meanwhile, was beaten handily by the Lightning in their most recent outing, with Kyle Connor providing their lone goal. Captain Mark Scheifele leads the Jets in goals (26), assists (38) and points (64).

  • The game is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • This is the second and final regular season meeting between the Panthers and Jets, with Florida having won the first matchup 2-1 on January 22, 2025.

The players

Matthew Tkachuk

Florida Panthers forward who scored two goals in the team's last game.

Mark Scheifele

Winnipeg Jets captain who leads the team in goals, assists and points.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a way to get back on track at home. These next few games are crucial for our playoff hopes.”

— Andrew Brunette, Florida Panthers Head Coach

“We know the Panthers are desperate for wins right now. We'll need to bring our 'A' game to Sunrise if we want to come away with two points.”

— Rick Bowness, Winnipeg Jets Head Coach

What’s next

The Panthers and Jets will not meet again until the 2026-27 NHL season.

The takeaway

This is a crucial game for both teams as they try to keep their faint playoff hopes alive. The Panthers need to take care of business at home, while the Jets will look to play the role of spoiler and pick up a key road victory.