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Jets Star Leaves Game After 'Freak Accident' With Official

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Apr 13, 2025 5:34 AM ET

The Winnipeg Jets clinched the top seed in the Western Conference and their first-ever Central Division title on Saturday.

The mood after their 5–4 shootout win over the Chicago Blackhawks, however, was tempered by injury concerns over Nikolaj Ehlers.

With just over five minutes remaining in the second period, Ehlers backed into linesman James Tobias near the blue line and dropped to the ice in visible pain.

Ehlers' right skate appeared to catch on Tobias’ skate, causing an awkward fall. The 29-year-old winger needed help from teammates Adam Lowry and Mason Appleton to leave the ice and did not return for the third period.

Nikolaj Ehlers leaves the game with assistance after a collision with a referee. pic.twitter.com/u2LppjCP6p
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 13, 2025

Jets head coach Scott Arniel confirmed the injury was a recurrence of a prior issue, saying it was “just a little bit of the injury that he had before.”

“They just ran into each other. It was a tough play, especially to lose him in that situation,” Arniel said. “It wasn't a blocked shot. It was a freak accident.”

Ehlers had recently returned from a lower-body injury and has posted 63 points in 69 games this season.

Jets captain Adam Lowry noted the bravery of his teammate, calling him a "warrior" for returning from his prior ailments and wishing him a speedy recovery.

“He’s a warrior; he plays through a lot of things,” Lowry said. “It’s just a freak accident. We’re hoping for the best. I’m sure we’ll know more in the next couple of days.”

Jets's Josh Morrissey added, “Just a weird play and a fluky play, and hopefully, he's OK.”

The Jets only have two regular-season games left in their schedule after securing both the Central Division crown and the top seed in the Western Conference on Saturday.

Winnipeg is also leading the race for the President's Trophy, thanks to their 114 points in 80 games, five more than the Washington Capitals (109) have in 79 outings.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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