Were You Watching, Jets?

When the first version of the Winnipeg Jets played at the Winnipeg Arena, Tie Domi was a fan favorite. He fought, he battled, he scored a few goals, and he was generally the kind of blue-collar player that Winnipeggers take pride in as a member of the team. Fast forward to today, and there's another Domi of the same bloodline coming through the junior ranks that looks like he'll make everyone in Winnipeg forget about his dad. That is, if the Jets are lucky enough to draft Max Domi in this year's upcoming NHL Entry Draft.

I have been impressed with Domi's play all season long despite his efforts being overshadowed by teammate Bo Horvat. Horvat is unquestionably the finisher on the London Knights roster, but Domi is the engine that keeps that line running and performing at peak efficiency. Domi goes into the corners, heads to the high-traffic areas, and routinely shows that his nose for physicality neds to be respected thanks to his soft hands and keen vision.

Case in point? How about tonight's magic against the Portland Winterhawks at the Mastercard Memorial Cup? Check this out (sorry about the ads - that's a Sportsnet thing).

Holy dynamite! I hope Kevin Cheveldayoff was watching that sequence because Max Domi just pulled off some magic unseen in the NHL, AHL, or CHL playoffs currently going on. I'm not saying that he's going to be able to recreate that creativity in the NHL, but the kid can play. Chevy better be penciling his name into the Jets' #13 slot at the draft. Letting him get away would be criminal!

Max Domi may have the best assist of the year in any league. Looks like he, like his dad, will play in the NHL for a long time based on his skill set.

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!