Jets' Scott Arniel Facing Major Criticism for Coaching Decision Involving Connor Hellebuyck

The Winnipeg Jets are on the verge of elimination after a 3-1 loss to the Dallas Stars in Game 4, which was accomplished on an infuriatingly all-too-familiar script.

For all the quality scoring opportunities that they generated, Winnipeg simply could not best Jake Oettinger, who delivered a star goalie's outing. One of Dallas' top-six forwards did net a hat trick, and that revealed Winnipeg's defensive weaknesses.

The Jets lost nine straight away playoff games dating back two seasons ago to Vegas. It got off to a good start and disintegrated in a snap after Dylan DeMelo gobbled up a sloppy holding-the-stick penalty.

Mikael Granlund snapped one in past Connor Hellebuyck glove-side from distance, his 11th goal he provides from 30+ feet during these playoffs, the worst from any goaltender.

Hellebuyck's road issues are a nightmare. His save percentage in five road playoff games is .793, and he's given up 10.85 more goals than he would have, per Natural Stat Trick. But his team's offense isn't cooperating, either.

The Jets have mustered only eight goals in those games. Mark Scheifele, in particular, has been a spectator on the road with no points and four shots.

Some of that ire is directed at head coach Scott Arniel for his mistake in not keeping a second shooter on the ice for a late power play by leaving Hellebuyck in the game.

On a statistical basis, it was a poor call, as maintaining a 6-on-4 man advantage significantly increases the opportunity to score. The hesitation has been criticized, especially in a do-or-die situation.

Now down in the series 3-1, the Jets welcome Dallas Thursday night and must win to salvage their season. With their inability to play away from home, home ice is all they can hold on to.