So something went wrong at Jets practice yesterday.
Blake Wheeler and Ben Chiarot fought. They fought at practice with 8 games left, a playoff spot all but assured, and a huge game against the Predators tonight at Bell MTS Centre. So what happened?
Here's what Scott Billeck of the NHL.com and NBC told me via message when I asked him:
Blake Wheeler and Ben Chiarot fought, Pete.Not sure what started it, but it appeared that Wheeler took a point shot that was directed at Chiarot. Chiarot wasn't in front of the net, but off to the side. Bit of a scuffle ensued in front, but then Wheeler dropped his gloves. Something was said, but you couldn't make it out.
Maurice told Wheeler to leave the ice. Chiarot stayed on. Scheifele was in the mix -- he was making it out like he was a peacemaker, but it look like he was involved. Hard to say as there were several players around trying to break it up.
Chiarot had a cut on his nose. Not much else. Wheeler didn't speak to the media, the rest of the players basically said they didn't see it, boys will be boys, and that it's over now. Liked the intensity, etc.
So there you go- boys will be boys.
What comes as surprising is this level of intensity at this juncture. Should a team not be trying to feel loose at this point? Should they be managing the stress better? Why would the captain be launching a puck a his own player?
While Maurice may have liked the intensity is it the right kind of intensity given the battle they are about to go into tonight vs the top of the Central Predators?
There really are no answers for this and perhaps time will tell and after the game some light will be shed on the moment that happened yesterday.
Billeck also reported today that Michael Hutchinson was on the ice today skating as he has been out with a concussion since the game against Nashville. This is good news and Jets fans can hope Steve Mason with whatever ails him is not far behind too.
That's all I have as I'm on vacation and will check in later.