Winnipeg Jets center Mark Scheifele scored a crucial goal in Game 6 of the second-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars on Saturday night, just hours after receiving news of his father’s unexpected death.
Scheifele’s fifth goal of the playoffs gave the Jets a 1-0 lead over the Stars, but they ultimately lost 2-1 in overtime. The penalty that set up the Stars’ power-play goal was taken by Scheifele himself.
Support from Teammates and Opponents
After the game, as players from both teams shook hands, Scheifele hugged and talked to nearly everyone. His teammates and opponents alike offered their support during this heartwarming moment.
Jets captain Adam Lowry went to get Scheifele out of the box when the game ended. In overtime, with seconds left in regulation, Scheifele lunged forward, desperately trying to make a play when he tripped an opponent at the blue line.
Defenseman Neal Pionk praised his teammate’s performance, stating:
"I know we have a great group here. Going into it, once we found out the news, he’s going to have a great support group and we’re going to be there for him through highs and lows – obviously today was a real low."
Pionk added:
"Did everything I could to give him some words of encouragement. For him to play tonight and play the way he did is flat-out one of the most courageous things I’ve ever seen."
Coach’s Condolences
Coach Scott Arniel expressed condolences before Game 6 regarding Brad Scheifele’s passing overnight:
"On behalf of the Winnipeg Jets family, our condolences to Mark and his family," coach Scott Arniel said.
He acknowledged that Mark would be playing that night as per his wishes. Arniel further emphasized that Mark is part of their family:
"The thing with Mr. Scheifele is he’s part of our family. He’s part of the Jets family that goes back to 2011 when Mark was first drafted here. We have a lot of players who came in around that time that are still here, and that’s been a big part of their lives along with their families. So it’s certainly obvious it’s devastating for Mr. Scheifele, but also for a lot of guys on this team."
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