For the first time since being traded to Chicago prior to the trade deadline, Andrew Ladd will make his return to Winnipeg to play the Jets as a member of the Blackhawks.
Ladd was with the Thrashers franchise when it made the move from Atlanta to Winnipeg and was re-branded as the Jets, and he captained the Jets to their first playoff appearance since the return to that market in 2011-12.
Ladd got together with some of his former Jets teammates Thursday night. That included forward Blake Wheeler, who admitted he’s still adjusting to the loss of his friend and long-time linemate.
“It still feels like he’s just hurt or something and we’re expecting him back at any time,” Wheeler said after Winnipeg’s skate.
The addition of Ladd no doubt helps solidify the Blackhawks as a team with potential to go on another long playoff run.
In eight games with Chicago since the deal, Ladd has scored twice and added two assists.
However, despite being active leading up to the trade deadline and building for a lengthy run in the post-season, the Blackhawks have struggled in March, with two wins in seven games. They’ve also lost four straight with one of a possible eight points in that span.