Can Claude Noel and the Jets Actually Earn Third Place?

When you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the way. (Photo "courtesy" of JetsAllOut.blogspot.com)

Get excited, Winnipeg. Your team has returned, your team is winning, and your team is in third place in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

Now, for the reality that you already know and that I feel evil for having to say. And, no, I don't care that you're only in third because you play in the NHL's weakest five-some, the Southeast Division.

The problem, of course, is that you have played more games than anybody else. After 63 games, you have 67 points. Florida, with 66 points, has played 59 games and is chasing you. Washington, the terrible Washington Capitals, with 63 points, have still only played 60 games and are chasing you.

You're on thin ice, but there's good news...

Keep winning. If you keep winning, you're doing something that Florida and Washington have been unable to do for a while now. Keep winning, and you'll control your destiny.

Everyone's got your back. Now, start the push.

Head coach Claude Noel, on the Jets' Saturday affair with the St. Louis Blues: