The Winnipeg Jets have assigned forward Cole Perfetti to the American Hockey League’s Manitoba Moose. This news comes following the 19-year-old serving as a healthy scratch when the Jets faced off against Minnesota on Tuesday evening.
Making his NHL debut in Anaheim against the Ducks in Winnipeg’s season opener last week, Perfetti had a strong game, finishing the night as a strong option to earn a spot in the team’s lineup in its second game of the season. Even with Mark Scheifele returning from suspension, Perfetti remained with the big club in San Jose. That Saturday evening game, however, was not his finest, and a trip to the press box came shortly thereafter.
Now with captain Blake Wheeler out 10 days due to testing positive for COVID-19 and the potential of more positive tests, the team has made the announcement that Perfetti will join the Moose for the immediate future. Interestingly, no call-up option has been named, but the likely targets would be Dominic Toninato or David Gustafsson.
Hearing #nhljets are bracing for more positive COVID-19 tests within locker room. Team is waiting on additional lab-based results overnight that will provide a clearer picture tomorrow exactly what they're facing.#GoJetsGo home opener Thursday night vs. #FlyTogether #nhlducks
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) October 20, 2021
Now set to get a massive increase in opportunity and playing time with the Moose, Perfetti will join a lineup already blossoming with offensive talent. Due to last season’s AHL exemption for players under the age of 20, Perfetti is eligible to participate in the 2021-22 AHL season. The 5-foot-11, 177-pound forward will suit up in a lineup closely resembling the following – with the removal of either Gustafsson or Toninato:
Malott — Gustafsson — Reichel
Johnson — Toninato — Poganski
Eyssimont — Maier — Jones
Polei — Meireles — Lynch
Oligny — Kovacevic
Heinola — Gawanke
Chisholm — Lundmark
Berdin
Holm
With the Moose last year, Perfetti had nine goals 26 points, finishing second on the team in both points and assists (17). He also served as a prominent member of Hockey Canada’s World Junior and World Championship squad, earning a silver medal at the international holiday classic, while later taking home the gold in Latvia this past summer.
Drafted 10th overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Perfetti will look to build upon his rookie season while enjoying increased ice time in Manitoba until summoned by the big club once again.
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