Connor powers Jets as Utah takes first loss — Central Division roundup

Sunday in the Central Division was defined by the Jets’ lethal power play in Detroit and the Utah Mammoth finally hitting a bump at Madison Square Garden.

Jets: Connor drives the power play in tight win over Detroit

In Detroit, Kyle Connor took over on the Jets’ man advantage. He scored twice on the power play and added an assist, steering Winnipeg to a 3-2 victory over the Red Wings. The road win pushes the Jets to 1-0-1 on the season, good for three points in two games and fourth place in the Central behind a trio of teams already sitting at four points.

In a tight contest, Winnipeg not only cashed in with the extra skater but also locked things down late to get out of Michigan with their first win of the year.

Utah: first loss of the season at Madison Square Garden

The Utah Mammoth saw their perfect start end in New York. Igor Shesterkin turned aside 28 shots and chipped in an assist in the Rangers’ 4-2 win at Madison Square Garden. Even with that first setback, Utah still sports a strong 2-1-0 record for four points in three games, which currently has them sitting third in the division.

The Mammoth no longer have a spotless record, but they remain firmly in the early mix near the top of the Central after a tough stop in Manhattan.

Around the Central: Colorado and Minnesota perfect, Dallas and Chicago winless

The Colorado Avalanche and Minnesota Wild were idle Sunday but remain on top of the standings at 2-0-0, each with four points in two games.

Behind Utah and Winnipeg, the St. Louis Blues and Nashville Predators are packed in the middle with two points apiece through two outings (1-1-0). The Dallas Stars are still searching for their first point at 0-2-0, sharing the bottom of the Central with the Chicago Blackhawks, who have started 0-3-0.