The Winnipeg Jets have officially placed forward Nino Niederreiter on the injured reserve list following an undisclosed injury, according to a recent team announcement. This move coincides with goaltender Domenic DiVincentiis being reassigned to the AHL’s Manitoba Moose. Niederreiter’s injury has contributed to growing uncertainty around the team’s lineup as they adjust post-Olympics.
Limited Details on Niederreiter’s Condition and Impact on Team
Details regarding the nature of Niederreiter’s injury remain scarce. Head coach Scott Arniel informed reporters earlier that Niederreiter is expected to be sidelined for several weeks but provided no further explanation. It is widely speculated that the injury stemmed from his participation with Switzerland in the recent Olympic tournament. Niederreiter managed to score one goal across five games during the Olympics but ended with a minus-three rating.
Declining Performance and Reduced Ice Time This Season
This season, Niederreiter has not matched his previous levels of productivity. The 33-year-old winger has recorded eight goals and 19 total points over 55 games, with an average ice time of just under 14 minutes per game—the lowest since his early NHL years in 2011-12. His diminished role and output highlight the challenges the Jets face without his presence.
Jets Adapt Lineup Successfully Despite Niederreiter’s Absence
Despite the setback of losing Niederreiter, the Jets have maintained a functional lineup. In their first game since the Olympics, Winnipeg’s third line, featuring Gustav Nyquist, Jonathan Toews, and Vladislav Namestnikov, led the team to an overtime victory. This lineup shift suggests the team’s depth can somewhat compensate for Niederreiter’s injury, though concerns linger regarding overall team speed and offensive consistency.
DiVincentiis Returns to AHL as Hellebuyck Prepares for Return
Meanwhile, goaltender Domenic DiVincentiis has been sent back to the Manitoba Moose after filling in as a backup during Wednesday’s game. He had initially been called up to support practice while starter Connor Hellebuyck regained readiness following his stellar Olympic performance. Hellebuyck is expected to start the upcoming game, coming off an exceptional showing that included five wins and a .956 save percentage, highlighted by a 41-save effort in the Gold Medal match against Canada.
Implications for Jets Moving Forward
Niederreiter’s move to injured reserve raises questions about the Jets’ offensive capabilities and depth as they try to maintain momentum this season. The uncertainty surrounding his recovery timeline makes roster decisions more pivotal in the coming weeks, especially as the team attempts to balance player health with performance needs. Winnipeg’s ability to adapt, especially with key players like Nyquist, Toews, and Hellebuyck stepping up, will be crucial for their success in the weeks ahead.
TRANSACTIONS: The #NHLJets have placed F – Nino Niederreiter on injured reserve retroactive to Feb. 18. The Jets have also loaned G – Domenic DiVincentiis to the Manitoba Moose (AHL).
— Winnipeg Jets PR (@WpgJetsPR) February 27, 2026
