Winnipeg Jets forward David Gustafsson will draw into the lineup for the first time this season after Gabe Vilardi suffered a sprained MCL in their last game. Gustafsson was on the decline last season getting demoted from center to winger and eventually a healthy scratch.
Bowness Warned Gustafsson
Jets head coach Rick Bowness told us that he was clear with the young forward. His options were to play better or get demoted to the AHL.
"You're going to have to come to this team and earn your ice time. You're going to have to make this team this year. You don't have a spot given to you."
Gustafsson seemed to respond to this well as he did make the team out of camp, albeit as the 13th forward. Bowness has been known to be hard on rookies and young players in general in the past.
Gustafsson Ready For Another Opportunity
Gustafsson will likely draw into the lineup on Thursday when the Jets take on the Vegas Golden Knights. He is excited to play in the NHL again.
«This is the moment I've been waiting for. It's not how you want to get into the lineup, a guy getting injured. But I feel ready.»
The young forward worked on his offensive skillset and skating over the summer and showed up to camp with new confidence, all of which was noticed by Bowness and the rest of the coaching staff. Bowness spoke highly of him, crediting him for rightfully earning his spot on the team fair and square.
"We are (confident) because he had such a good training camp, scored the goals and he's skating better. Give him credit. He worked very hard and he earned that spot."
The Jets host the Golden Knights tomorrow at 8:00 p.m. EST.
