Jets' Vilardi opens scoring with tip-in goal

Gabriel Vilardi gets a piece of Josh Morrissey's shot from deep for a 1-0 lead in the 1st period

Mar. 28, 2026 at 11:35pm

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In a matchup between the Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche, Gabriel Vilardi opened the scoring for the Jets by tipping in a shot from defenseman Josh Morrissey in the first period, giving the Jets an early 1-0 lead.

Why it matters

Vilardi's goal gave the Jets an important early lead in a game between two Western Conference playoff contenders. The Jets are looking to solidify their position in the standings, while the Avalanche are trying to keep pace in the competitive Central Division race.

The details

With just over 5 minutes gone in the first period, Jets defenseman Josh Morrissey fired a shot from the point that was tipped in front of the net by forward Gabriel Vilardi, giving the Jets a 1-0 advantage.

  • The goal was scored at the 5:12 mark of the first period.

The players

Gabriel Vilardi

A forward for the Winnipeg Jets who scored the opening goal of the game by tipping in a shot from his teammate.

Josh Morrissey

A defenseman for the Winnipeg Jets who took the initial shot that was tipped in by Vilardi for the opening goal.

Winnipeg Jets

The home team playing against the Colorado Avalanche, who took an early 1-0 lead in the game.

Colorado Avalanche

The visiting team playing against the Winnipeg Jets, who fell behind 1-0 early in the game.

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What they’re saying

“That was a great play by Vilardi to get a piece of my shot and put it in the net. It's always nice to get on the board first in a big divisional matchup like this.”

— Josh Morrissey, Winnipeg Jets Defenseman

The takeaway

Vilardi's timely tip-in goal gave the Jets an early advantage in this important Western Conference clash, setting the tone for what is sure to be a hard-fought battle between two playoff-caliber teams.