This is a proper Division Championship race now. If you watch footy, you'll know that in a neck and neck title run-in, dropping points can be the death knell for a team. It might seem harsh, but those losses against Vancouver and Buffalo cost the Jets some precious breathing room.
The stakes are high.
Since the 11 game winning streak ended on Feb 27, a month to the day, Dallas has slowly closed the gap to 4, from what was an 11 point lead. There is a Division Championship on the line (whether you value it or not) and a favourable opening matchup.
The rewards are great.
You might as well consider the playoffs to have already started. Like playoff hockey, I find this situation stressful yet very fun and exciting.
I think the Jets will finish 1st, but they would be wise to take the remaining fixtures as seriously such. These next two games against NJ and Vancouver, they just need to win, by hook or by crook. Get it done, bank the points, continue to widdle down the remaining runway and take a bit of necessity off the LA and Vegas tilts.
I dont subscribe to this "1st doesn't matter they should be able to beat any team in the playoffs" narrative I've read in some YT chats. Nah. I want the Jets to have every possible advantage in obtaining the Cup. There will be no shortage of glory should they reach the summit, even if they don't travel the hardest route.
10 games left apiece, 20 possible points up for grabs. Don't count on favors. Thankfully it's in the Jets hands, which is always the better position to be in.
Hold on to it boys.