Winnipeg Jets preview: Last in Central

2013-14 results: 37-35-10, last in Central

Story line: Jets are looking to end playoff drought

Arrivals: G Peter Budaj (trade with Montreal Canadiens), C Mathieu Perreault, LW TJ Galiardi (free agents)

Departures: LW Eric Tangradi (traded to Canadiens), C Olli Jokinen (signed with Nashville Predators), G Al Montoya (signed with Florida Panthers), RW Devin Setoguchi (signed with Calgary Flames)

Goaltending: Ondrej Pavelec (22-26-7, 3.01, .901) is No. 1, and Budaj is likely No. 2 .On paper, the Jets' goaltending will be ranked near the bottom. You can't make the playoffs when your top goalie boasts a .901 save percentage.

Analysis: After Paul Maurice took over as coach, the Jets went 18-12-5. If they had played at that pace all season, they would have made the playoffs. But making the playoffs could be a challenge because the Jets didn't do much to improve. Led by forwards Blake Wheeler, Bryan Little, Evander Kane and Andrew Ladd, the Jets score just enough, ranking 15th. But they were 22nd in goals against. They need better defensive play and sharper goaltending. They could also use a big season from Kane, 23, who had 19 goals last season but is capable of doing much more. One persistent question: Are the Jets better off if Dustin Byfuglien plays forward or defense?

Breakthrough candidate: C Mark Scheifele, 21, is ready to be a significant offensive contributor. He had 13 goals last season and should net 20 to 25 this season.

Youngster to watch: Jacob Trouba is 20, but he might be the key to the defense. In his second season, Trouba could be ready to play 25 minutes and register 40-45 points. He has as much potential as any young defenseman in the game.

What the team really needs: To get off the treadmill. They are working hard but not getting anywhere. They might need to make a bold trade to put a charge into this group. Given the league-wide intrigue about Byfuglien, he might land a good return.

Key question: Did the Jets make a mistake by not going after a higher-profile goalie? They seem sold on Pavelec, even if some of the league isn't.

Forecast: The Jets are not cleared for takeoff. Despite Maurice's best efforts, they'll miss the playoffs again.

Top returning leaders

Goals: Blake Wheeler, 28

Assists: Bryan Little, Wheeler, 41

Points: Wheeler, 69

Plus-minus: Mark Stuart, +11

Penalty minutes: Stuart, 101

Shots: Dustin Byfuglien, 256