Scott Arniel reveals Jets starting goalie and takes huge gamble with top line

Jan 24, 2026 (11:20)

Photo credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Scott Arniel just dropped the lines for tonight's clash with Detroit and the decision to promote Alex Iafallo changes the entire complexion of this roster.

The morning skate revealed some serious tinkering.

We knew changes were coming after that tight shootout loss to Florida.

But seeing Iafallo jump onto the top unit is a genuine curveball.

Mark Scheifele needs a spark on his wing.

The Olympic snub clearly lit a fire under him, but he needs help.

You can see the new lines running drills with pace here.

The coaching staff is clearly looking for defensive responsibility up high.

Gabriel Vilardi sliding down to the second line changes the dynamic there too.

He joins Cole Perfetti and hometown veteran Jonathan Toews.

Toews has been a stabilizer since signing that one-year deal, but this line needs to produce at 5-on-5.

Speaking of stability, the defense has a massive test tonight.

Elias Salomonsson draws back in next to Dylan Samberg.

The 2022 second-round pick (55th overall) has to be sharp against a fast Red Wings group.

Hellebuyck is confirmed to start and the fanbase is praying he steals this one.

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This is the stabilizer the team needs right now.

Detroit brings heavy offense with Patrick Kane and Dylan Larkin, so the crease needs to be locked down.

Winnipeg cannot afford a slow start on home ice.

The bottom six looks heavy with Adam Lowry and Vladislav Namestnikov together.

That checking line is going to be miserable to play against.

Points are at a premium in the Central Division race.

This lineup is a gamble, but a necessary one.

Previously on HockeyLatest

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JANVIER 24\|164 ANSWERS Scott Arniel reveals Jets starting goalie and takes huge gamble with top line Do you trust Alex Iafallo on the top line with Scheifele?
Yes	108	65.9 %
No	56	34.1 %
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