The ice hockey world is in shock following the unexpected loss of the father of Mark Scheifele, star of the Winnipeg Jets. The news, revealed on Friday night, casts doubt on the forward’s participation in the crucial Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals series against the Dallas Stars.
Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff, visibly emotional, communicated the sad news to the media before the team’s morning practice. Brad Scheifele, the player’s father, has passed away.
As an organization, we are doing everything we can to support you and offer your family our sincerest condolences. And, obviously, we ask everyone to respect their privacy and that of their family at this time.
Kevin Cheveldayoff, General Manager of the Winnipeg Jets
According to Cheveldayoff, Winnipeg’s head coach, Scott Arniel, returned to the team hotel to speak with Mark Scheifele. The general manager indicated that it was too early to confirm whether the 32-year-old player will participate in Saturday night’s decisive game.
An update from coach Arniel is expected at 5:30 p.m. ET.
Scheifele had an outstanding performance on Thursday, scoring a goal and an assist in Winnipeg’s 4-0 victory over Dallas, avoiding elimination. However, the Stars lead the best-of-seven series with a 3-2 advantage.
During the playoffs, Scheifele has accumulated 10 points, distributed in four goals and six assists, in the 10 games played.
In the regular season, Scheifele reached personal bests in assists (48) and points (87), in addition to leading the NHL with 11 game-winning goals, playing all 82 games.
