Jets Aim to Boost Playoff Push Against Blackhawks

Winnipeg looks to gain ground in tight Western Conference wild card race with a win in Chicago.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:01am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a hockey game between the Winnipeg Jets and Chicago Blackhawks, with the players and action on the ice broken down into abstract, angular forms in a palette of blues, greens, and grays.The Winnipeg Jets' crucial matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks is rendered in a Cubist style, reflecting the high stakes and intensity of the game.Chicago Today

The Winnipeg Jets are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive as they travel to Chicago to take on the Blackhawks on Tuesday night. With the Western Conference wild card race extremely tight, the Jets need a win to gain ground and stay in contention for a postseason berth.

Why it matters

The Jets are currently on the outside looking in when it comes to the Western Conference playoff picture. A win over the Blackhawks could help them leapfrog some of the teams ahead of them and put them in a stronger position to clinch a wild card spot.

The details

The Jets have been inconsistent this season, but they know the importance of this matchup against the Blackhawks. Chicago has struggled mightily and sits near the bottom of the standings, making this a prime opportunity for Winnipeg to pick up two crucial points.

  • The Jets and Blackhawks face off on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

The players

Winnipeg Jets

An NHL team based in Winnipeg, Manitoba that plays in the Western Conference.

Chicago Blackhawks

An NHL team based in Chicago, Illinois that plays in the Western Conference.

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What they’re saying

“We know this is a must-win game for us if we want to keep our playoff hopes alive. The guys are focused and ready to go out and get the job done.”

— Paul Maurice, Head Coach, Winnipeg Jets

What’s next

The Jets' next game after this matchup against the Blackhawks will be on April 2nd against the Minnesota Wild, another key divisional opponent in the tight Western Conference playoff race.

The takeaway

This game represents a crucial opportunity for the Winnipeg Jets to gain ground in the Western Conference wild card standings. A win over the struggling Blackhawks could provide a much-needed boost to their postseason aspirations.